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Austria on a budget: 15 cost-cutting tips for budget travel in Austria

September 11, 2018 by Karen Turner 3 Comments

One of the biggest shocks of planning our trip to Austria was how expensive Austria is…  After spending three weeks this past August in Austria, I hope that I can help you better plan your travel in Austria to cut costs.  Fifteen tips for budget travel in Austria are included in this article!

• 0.1 Flying into Austria on a budget
• 0.2 Saving money on Austrian hotels
• 0.3 Avoid going in peak season if possible
• 0.4 Head to smaller cities for reasonable prices and a better experience
• 0.5.1 Buy a Sparschiene ticket
• 0.5.2 Take the Westbahn 
• 0.6.1 Finding free parking…
• 0.7.1 Austrian supermarkets
• 0.7.2 Affordable meals in Austria
• 0.8 Where to buy cheaper beer…
• 0.9 Only pay for half the viewpoint cost
• 0.10 Other attractions on a budget
• 0.11 Free castles in Austria!?
• 0.12 Plan ahead for Sundays
• 0.13 How to save money on adventure activities
• 1 Have you traveled in Austria on a budget?

Flying into Austria on a budget

There are a number of budget airlines that fly into Vienna as well as Salzburg.  I flew with Easyjet and Transavia (a Dutch airline) from Amsterdam for about forty euros per way.  I purchased these budget flights about 1-2 months before my trip, which was a steal.   

Depending on where you will be visiting in Austria, it might be cheaper to fly into Munich or Prague with taking a budget bus to Austria.  An Austrian friend of mine often flies into Prague as it’s significantly cheaper.  That said, you still need to pay for transit, but he swears that it’s cheaper to fly into Prague and take the bus to Upper Austria. 

Saving money on Austrian hotels

The biggest budget killer when it comes to Austria are the hotels.  It’s important to book your hotels far ahead if you intend to visit major Austrian cities like Salzburg or Vienna.  Reasonable rooms go rapidly, especially in peak season.   Expect to pay at least 100 euros per night for a budget room.

In some countries, you can get a great deal if you book last minute, but this is not the case in most Austrian cities.  Most have a fairly compact city center, including Salzburg, so the longer that you wait, the fewer rooms there will be available….and the worse the prices will get. I recommend booking your hotel in Austria as early as possible to get the best prices.

One tip is to consider staying about 15-20 minutes outside of major cities.  On my first trip to Austria, we planned our trip too late to find an affordable room in Salzburg and Hallstatt .  I ended up finding an affordable room about 20-30 minutes outside of both cities.  Instead of paying 150 euros for a hotel in Salzburg, I found a room just 30 minutes of Salzburg for 49 euros per night with a room with space for three.

While in Austria, I met two Australian backpackers who were traveling through Austria with couchsurfing.  Couchsurfing in the major cities can be a way to save money, however finding a host can be difficult as they learned.  Don’t count on it.

For more affordable accommodations, you can look into campsites where you can pay as little between 20 and 50 euros per night for a place to park your camper or pitch a tent.  Similarly, most major Austrian cities have hostels, so if you’re traveling solo, you should be able to find a bunk for a reasonable price.

Check hotel prices in Austria for your trip now!

Avoid going in peak season if possible

Everyone wants to go to Austria in summer and winter (for skiing).  As you might imagine, prices will skyrocket for rooms as everyone plans their skiing trips to Austria. Summer is also a popular time.  That said, you’ll save a lot if you visit Austria during shoulder season.

Head to smaller cities for reasonable prices and a better experience

Although you can certainly find budget options for food in Vienna and Salzburg, you’ll need to look harder.  For a better experience and reasonable prices, consider visiting some of the smaller towns and cities.  In particular, I was impressed with Linz, a stunning Austrian city with countless pastel buildings and reasonable restaurants.  

Similarly, many people flock to Melk Abbey for their famous library and and elaborate Baroque architecture, however there are numerous monasteries around Austria with fewer crowds where you can admire the same sights.  We ended up visiting St. Florian Abbey, which has a library that has been perfectly preserved without any renovations and significantly cheaper prices without the crowds.

Similarly, I skipped Hallstatt on my recent trip in favor of St. Gilgen .  Simply, give Austria a chance and you’ll end up saving a lot on hotels/food if you visit some other cities.

Saving money on the Austrian trains

If you’re just visiting the major cities and don’t require a car, you might save money by purchasing Austrian train tickets in advance.  The Austrian trains can be pricey if you wait until the last minute, so I hope that these tips help you save money!

Buy a Sparschiene ticket

One of the cheapest ways to travel around Austria is by train, as long as you are able to nab a Sparschiene ticket. Sparschiene tickets are a small set of discounted train tickets offered by national carrier ÖBB. Comparable to an early bird special, these tickets are limited in number and are sold on a first come first serve basis.

They are as cheap as 9€ which can lead to savings of more than 50%. Because they are so affordable, they come with several restrictions which you must be aware of before you travel. Firstly, these tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable. If you are unable to travel, you eat the cost of the ticket.

More importantly, Sparschiene tickets are bound to the routes and connections printed on them. That means if you have booked a departure from Vienna Airport at 17:00 but your flight is delayed by an hour, you cannot simply take a train at 18:00. It also means that if you are booked on a regional train, you cannot take an Intercity train instead.

Often, Sparschiene tickets have unfavorable connections, but it can work out very cheaply if you are flexible. Should you have a transfer and miss it to no fault of your own (i.e. your first train is delayed), you need to seek out an information desk and get a stamp on your ticket to be allowed to travel on a different train.

Sparschiene tickets can be booked in advance on the ÖBB website and are marked ‘Sparschiene’. They are available for journeys of more than 150 km (e.g. Salzburg-Innsbruck). It is worth noting that the ticket does not include a seat reservation.  While they are not mandatory, you may want to book a seat on popular routes during high season. Sparschiene tickets are also available for a number of international routes in case you are planning to travel outside Austria.  Thanks to Jacqueline for her tip.  You can read her tips for exploring Vienna here .

Take the Westbahn 

The Westbahn is another train company that operates in Austria.  This private company has a limited route, however it passes between Salzburg, Linz, and Vienna.  If you will be traveling between Salzburg  by train and Vienna, look up the fare on the Westbahn, which has rates as low as 9 euros between some cities.  The times are more limited, however I was able to get a very affordable train ticket on a recent trip between Vienna and Linz.

Renting a car: Yay or Nay?

If your goal is to cut costs and do more outdoor activities, having a car can be a huge asset in Austria.  On my last trip to Austria, we were able to cut accomodation costs near Salzburg by 66% by simply driving to a nearby town where we could stay for a fraction of the cost.  Similarly, Austria has large car-friendly supermarkets and you’ll save a lot if you have access to them.  Supermarkets in the city centers tend to have higher prices.

On the down side, most major cities generally do not provide free parking, so if you intend to spend several days in a major Austrian city, expect to pay accordingly.  However, if you have a car, staying outside of the city center at a hotel with free parking can be a great option.  If you’re planning on only focusing on major cities, I’d recommend utilizing the trains instead.

Finding free parking…

You can generally find street parking in most Austrian cities that is free in the evenings (after 10pm) as well as on Sundays.  Check the signs to see the parking situation before you park.  Similarly, you might find free parking outside of the center (about a 15 minute walk) from many smaller Austrian cities. 

Cutting down on the cost of food in Austria

Although meals in Austria are fairly heavy, prices might surprise you.   I believe that it’s fairly realistic to have a food budget of 20-25 euros per day if you’re eating on a budget and eating out for most meals.  However, you can bring that number down if you visit the supermarkets.

Austrian supermarkets

Austria has a number of main supermarkets that you’ll see while traveling in Austria: Hofer, Billa, Spar, Lidl, and Penny.  My favorite supermarket while in Austria was Spar as it had the widest assortment as Hofer, Lidl, and Penny are discount supermarkets with a more limited selection.  If you intend to head to the supermarket, carefully check the hours as some in smaller towns will take a lunch break and most will close around dinner time.  

Even if you don’t have access to a kitchen, you can cut down on your lunch costs by purchasing meat, cheese, tasty rolls, and granola bars to have while hiking.   Similarly, some Spars will sell sandwiches to go as well as cold drinks.  To be fair, we didn’t always see a great spot to sit, but it’s easy to walk until you find a scenic view.

My favorite combination of items to snack on while in Austria was the pretzel (brezel) with sweet or spicy mustard.  Even for mustard haters, Austrian mustard is something special.  It can be cheaply purchased in tube form, so look in the supermarket for  senf  as well as the bread section pretzels for less than one euro.

Affordable meals in Austria

One of my go-to “cheap” meals while out in Austria was pancake soup (frittatensuppe), especially while at traditional Austrian restaurants/cafes.    This delicious soup with leftover pancakes is typically 2-4 euros, so it’s a great light lunch.  There are a number of great Austrian soups, so it’s good to check the menu to see the options.  Gulasch is also a great affordable option…

If you’re feeling a bit more hungry, it can be fairly economical to purchase some worst, which typically comes with bread or pretzels as a side.  I ended up ordering a soft pretzel (brezel) with sweet or spicy mustard a couple times just as a delicious snack. 😉 

Where to buy cheaper beer…

Many people don’t realize that the gas stations are a great place to buy beer, especially if you have your own accomodation.  We were able to find local craft beer at a number of the gas stations near us.  Rather than paying bar prices for each beer, we were able to purchase our delicious beer for a fraction of the cost before enjoying it on the terrace of our lovely Austrian base.  The supermarkets are also a great place to pick up affordable beer!

Only pay for half the viewpoint cost

Especially if you’re visiting Austria in summer, you don’t always need to pay for a viewpoint.  It’s often possible to hike up (or down) from a ski lift for free, so if you’re looking to save money while enjoying the many gondolas and their viewpoints, bring your hiking gear with you to avoid the pricey round trip fare. 

Other attractions on a budget

If you’re wincing at the significant cost of activities in Austria, you’re not alone.  Museums often don’t have reduced admission, however many churches are free to enter if you simply want to look around.

If you’re interested in learning about history, I recommend taking a day to remember and learn about the past.  I visited the Mauthausen Memorial, one of the most powerful Holocaust memorials in Europe according to many.  This memorial stands in the spot of the KZ Mauthausen concentration camp.  Although quite heavy, it is free to visit and quite moving.

Free castles in Austria!?

Many people, myself included, did not know about the castle ruins.  All across Austria, you’ll find historic castle ruins that are generally free for the public to enjoy.  Simply, you just park your car–and head up to explore them.  Most are not perfectly maintained, but safe enough that you can explore without worries. (You’ll see a lot of families at them.)

In the Wachau valley, I loved  Ruine Dürnstein and Ruine Hinterhaus , which provide scenic views of the vineyards, the Danube, and the charming towns…  Near Linz,  Burgruine Schaunberg is absolutely stunning. Simply, search for “Ruine” near where you are.  

Plan ahead for Sundays

Sundays are a weird day in Austria. Expect a lot of things to be closed in smaller cities although you’ll find more open in major cities.  That said, expect most supermarkets to be closed, which leaves your best budget food options on Sundays to be eating out at restaurants or picking up snacks at the gas station.  Do like…everyone else and plan ahead.

How to save money on adventure activities

Austria is full of stunning trails and mountains that are easy to navigate without a guide.  For a comprehensive guide to free hiking in Austria, I recommend the  Walking in Austria: 101 routes – day walks, multi-day treks and classic hut-to-hut tours guide by Cicerone Guides .

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Austria has the highest number of klettersteige of any country.  I explain klettersteige in this article about klettersteig.   In general, I recommend trying out your first klettersteige with a professional as having proper technique is key.

If you have your own gear (as I do) and you’re experienced with climbing, you can easily hike to the beginning of different klettersteige around Austria and do them independently.   You can look up the klettersteige routes online.  For an easier klettersteig for intermediate climbers, I really enjoyed the Katrin klettersteige near Bad Ischl. 

Have you traveled in Austria on a budget?

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

November 22, 2018 at 10:37 am

Wish I had come across this post while I was still in Austria! But thanks for the great post anyway, I will get back to this for my future travel reference.

March 27, 2022 at 2:02 pm

That was super useful Karen. Did you visit Grossglockner High Alpine Road? Wanted to know how much it costs to go there

April 21, 2022 at 2:30 pm

Unfortunately not!

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Budget Austria Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money

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The Budget Austria Travel Guide includes 18 Important Travel Planning Tips that will allow you to see and do more on your budget. Learn how you can benefit.

Welcome to the Ultimate Austria Travel Guide! Not too long ago people tended to assume that Austria was a ‘cheaper Switzerland’ where you could ski, hike, and relax in Alpine splendor without worrying too much about the credit card bill to follow.

Nowadays Austria is firmly and deservedly on the map as a destination in its own right – offering not just all of the above but some gorgeous cities and amazing cultural sights to complement that pristine environment.

One of the handiest aspects of Austria is that the country is easy to travel across in a logical manner, and you don’t need to head too far off the main routes to discover more peaceful corners. No matter what kind of vacation or adventures you’re looking for chances are that Austria will have them by the dozen – so let’s now take a look at these options in a little more detail.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What Are the Best Places to Visit in Austria?

Austria is so easy to get around that you’d be crazy to just visit Vienna, Salzburg or Innsbruck alone. Each of these ‘big three’ cities has plenty to offer and make sure to also allow for time visiting smaller and more remote parts of the country. A personal favorite destination of your team at the Austria Travel Guide has to be Zell am See – perhaps the most ‘picture perfect’ Apline scene you’ll find anywhere!

Expect to spend plenty of time gazing at the amazing scenery pretty much wherever you go in Austria. Traveling between the various regions is best done by train where you can enjoy the various cities at your leisure (we’ll talk more about this later on).

Vienna is regarded as one of the world’s cultural capitals and famed for its musical heritage, art galleries, and grand palaces. Of the Habsburg sites, a trip to the Schönbrunn, Hofburg, and Belvedere Palaces is an absolute must. Forget the fact that the monarchy themselves are now long gone – these are quite timeless heritage sites now that everyone can enjoy!

Of the three palaces, we’d recommend you do your best to visit them all, but if time is short and you’re after art above architecture then the Belvedere is probably your best bet. Fill the rest of your time by taking in the many other museums (you really cannot miss them, St Stephen’s Cathedral, have an alfresco lunch at the Schonnbrun Gardens and maybe even visit the Tiergarten too.

While Vienna has plenty to offer for a few days most visitors will be looking to head west as the next stage of their Austrian adventure. Salzburg and Innsbruck are the other major cities and are much more geared towards the mountains and lakes that the country is so famed for. Salzburg is simply beautiful and very straightforward to walk around at a gentle pace along the riverfront and around the Hohensalzburg fortress.

You won’t need more than a couple of days or so to see the city (really a large town) itself, but make sure to use those cable cars and lifts for some incredible views (and amazing places to eat!). Be sure to visit the Salzburg Altstadt – it is one of those places you simply have to visit. There’s also usually a show on at the Salzburg Festival House where lederhosen remain strictly optional!

If Salzburg is chilled out strolling around then Innsbruck is a little more action-packed! Considered one of the world’s leading snowsports centers and with some of the most famous ski jumps on the planet, you can still find plenty to do outside of ski season too. The landscape – much as it does elsewhere in the more mountainous areas of Europe – still enjoys wonderful changes throughout the seasons.

Hiking around Innsbruck during the summer is a marvelous way of spending some time in truly gorgeous countryside where you can let out a ‘yodel’ or two as you please. Check out the Emperor’s Tomb, Golden Roof, and the essential Tyrolean State Museums when you need to rest up for a little while.

Away from the three major cities, there’s still plenty more to see and explore in Austria. If you are visiting for the ski season then you’ll be likely looking towards more exclusive resorts such as Kitzbühel and Kitzbüheler Horn. Prices are not quite as steep as you’ll find in Switzerland and there are ways of getting on those slopes and lifts without breaking the budget!

If photography or simply marveling at amazing scenery is your thing then you really do have an outrageous number of options to choose between. Alongside Zell am See the Austria Travel Guide highly recommends Feldkirch and Durnstein if your travels take you nearby.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Austria?

There are many reasons why Austria is an amazing place to visit and one of them is quite simply how easy it can be to switch and mix up your activities. You could quite easily spend a little time in Vienna checking out the essential sights, then head out to a region(s) of your choice and roam about at leisure.

If you need a break, there’s plenty to explore in the gorgeous and largely unspoiled Austrian towns – and no shortage of Bierkellers to rest those weary feet! All we’d say for sure is to try and make sure you time your visit for a part of the year that suits what you are wanting to do. Winter is best for shopping and skiing, while the rest of the year is perfect for exploring, hiking, biking, and general sightseeing.

While you’re in Austria chances are that you’ll fancy getting on top of a mountain or two! The good news is that most of the popular mountains can be surprisingly accessible from certain angles and you don’t necessarily need to be a mountaineer to get close or even right on top of the peaks.

Cable cars are camouflaged just as well as they are in Switzerland and can lift passengers almost entirely to the top of many popular peaks. Is that cheating – well we’ll let you decide! Zell’s Pinzgauer Spaziergang is a good example of a stunning day hike that most people should be able to manage. Kitzbühel’s Wildpark Aurach is amazing during springtime should you find yourself there during the off-season.

As for skiing and other snowsports – Austria is not quite as affordable as it used to be but is still pretty accessible to most budgets. Experienced skiers and borders should still expect a considerable challenge – an Austrian black route really is a ‘black route’ – while novices will have no trouble finding expert tuition and plenty of baby slopes to practice on.

Our advice here would be to book your passes alongside your accommodation wherever possible as a good number of hostels/budget hotels have packages offering these. It should probably go without saying that you should look to book up months in advance for the best deals, although you could theoretically still just rock up and hire some skis on a day pass whenever you wish. Just remember that it’ll be expensive!

Austria has a habit of surprising visitors. A good proportion of people visit it only as part of a wider trip taking in Bohemia, Germany, Italy, and the Balkan countries. Mark our words when we say that you should allow more time for Austria than you may actually expect to need. It is breathtakingly beautiful and you’ll find that roaming about the country by train can be curiously addictive in all the right kind of ways!

It’s friendly, reasonably good value, has no end of things to keep you busy and some absolutely fascinating historic and cultural sights to take in.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – When is The Best Time to Visit Austria?

The Austrian climate is pretty dependable for large chunks of the year – a very long and warm spring/summer makes high season stretch from April through to late September. Expect cities/towns to be busier than usual and plenty of people to also be enjoying the Tyrollean countryside.

The Salzburg festival runs between late July through August and makes the city even better to visit but naturally also much busier. Ski season starts in December and tends to close around the middle of March.

Unless you are specifically visiting to ski or for the festivals we’d recommend May or September as the best times to visit Austria. Prices will be slightly lower and you’ll be outside of the typical European school holiday months making most places much quieter. The countryside is epically beautiful during both of these months while everything will be ‘business as usual’ in the cities and towns.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – Do I Need A Tourist Visa in Austria?

Austria is part of the Schengen group so EU nationals don’t even a passport to visit Austria providing their country is also a signatory (the UK is not). There are no routine border controls for land entry into the country although you may be asked for a passport on a train or once you have arrived in the country. Passports need to be valid for at least six months.

Austria operates visa exemptions for a long list of countries meaning that most people should be able to enter without any formal documentation besides their passport. EU/EAA citizens and those from the USA, Canadian, Australia/NZ, Japan, Israel, Malaysia and many more do not require a visa for stays longer than three months. As visas are issued upon entry you can theoretically hop over the border and return for another 90 days – meaning that you should be able to stay here pretty much as long as you like within reason.

Note that despite this rather laid back approach to entry visas that everyone – Austrians and visitors – is expected to carry ID on their person at all times. Besides being asked to present this with train tickets we at the Austria Travel Guide have never been checked for this ad-hoc, but it is something worth being aware of.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – Do U.S. Citizens Need A Visa for Austria

U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Austria, which simplifies entry into the country; however, a passport valid for at least six months past the planned date of departure is required.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What Currency Is Used in Austria?

Austria uses the Euro (€) that exchanges for around €0.9 = 1USD at the time of writing.

You should not expect to have any trouble handling your money in Austria. Card payments are widely accepted (chip and 4 digit PIN) and the vast majority of ATMs are multi-lingual and compatible with international cards. Exchange rates and transaction fees may vary depending on your bank so research this before you go. Change desks are available quite commonly across the most visited areas but broadly speaking you’ll find the best deals using ATMs and card transactions.

Bartering is very rare in Austria although you may be able to cut a small discount for larger groups when booking accommodation or tours. Expect to use cards for all substantial purchases and cash for incidentals. Remember also that wifi is everywhere so you’ll be able to manage your money online with ease.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – Do I Tip In Austria?

Tipping is expected in any sit-down cafe and/or restaurant but not to the sort of levels you’d experience elsewhere. 5-10% is about right for good service. Tipping bartenders and cabbies is optional although it’s never a bad idea to leave the change on a banknote. Try and leave a little tip for your room attendants at the end of your stay.

Nobody is going to be offended if you don’t tip in Austria but just be aware that not doing so implies that you were dissatisfied with some aspect of the service.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What Kind Of Budget Do I Need In Austria?

Austria is pretty similar to Germany in regards to how much cash you’ll need to enjoy the best in the country. The good news is that the scenery is basically free to enjoy and you’ll be able to spend large parts of your day without spending much whatsoever.

The issue is that cable cars/lifts are quite pricy and unless you are keen on long hikes you’ll need to use these quite frequently (keep an eye out for local passes and discounts). In the towns and cities, prices can get quite high – so you’ll need to shop about and get ready for some self-catering if visiting Austria on a tighter budget. Without pushing too far at the extremes here’s a rough breakdown of what you can expect from three very general budgeting plans:

Budget (€100/day max)

Don’t worry too much about that upper threshold – we’re including transport and lift costs in that estimate! What you shouldn’t ignore, however, is the simple fact that you won’t likely find a hotel within this budget anywhere in Austria.

Hostels are the way to go and fortunately, there’s plenty of them and the quality is usually very high indeed. Dorms tend to start at about €20 and upwards although that can stretch to at least 50% higher (or fully booked out) during peak season. Sort out your hostel accommodation before you arrive and you’ll find some great deals especially in Salzburg and Innsbruck.

Living costs are where you’ll be able to make some savings providing you don’t eat at restaurants too often. You’ll be able to pick up casual food from stores and takeaway places for about €5/meal. Restaurants can be very expensive especially in the more remote and picturesque parts of Austria so pack up some supplies into your rucksacks!

Admission costs can also be irritatingly high especially for the centerpiece attractions (€15-20). Travel is reasonable provided you book ahead – try and make your arrangements online to easily sort through the various deals.

Mid-Level (€120-180/day)

You should easily be able to enjoy Austria as you see fit within this budget. Hotel doubles start at about €100+ depending on the season and location – look at private non-chain B&Bs for better value especially outside of the main urban centers. Our advice would be to otherwise stick to the schedule outlined above but ‘treat’ yourself to one restaurant meal every day and consider taking in something special with the rest.

Tickets for the opera can be actually rather cheap and good value. Cycle tours are a great way of seeing Vienna properly and away from the central congestion.

Probably the most substantial difference with this budget is that it’ll allow greater flexibility with transportation and probably also stretch to winter sports if you visit at that time of year. One of the best aspects of Austria is how easy it can be to get around and we really do recommend that visitors try and spend time in different places as much as possible.

Even if you use let’s say Salzburg as your base you should look to spend whole days using the excellent rail network to get out and explore the local areas. Tickets do mount up quite quickly when booked separately so check out your eligibility for passes and discounts.

High-End (€200+)

Five-star accommodation is pretty common throughout Austria and you’ll have no trouble finding luxury spas and grand old hotels that’ll easily cost €200+/night. Fine dining with plenty of superb wines will easily head north of €100/person and the sky really is the limit. Box tickets for musical performances will be expensive enough to decimate most people’s budgets and usually book out years in advance, but with the right concierge who knows what could be possible?

Even though this budget would easily include internal flights we’d still recommend that you take the trains instead. First-class coaches are pricy and you’ll enjoy some rather outstanding table service while meandering through the Austrian Alps. Realistically speaking this is the kind of budget you’ll need to enjoy the ‘entry-level’ experience at the most exclusive snow sport regions and remember that the costs of living can go through the roof. €20 for an apres-ski bottle of beer is the norm!

You don’t really need to spend crazy amounts to be able to really enjoy Austria just remember that those little incidental purchases (lifts/cable cars especially) do mount up on your daily outgoings. As with plenty of other places throughout Europe, there’s no shortage of ways to spend little and have a wonderful stay. We’d recommend walking tours of Vienna – €12/person for several hours of entertainment is a bargain wherever you are and no matter what hotel you’re staying at.

Prices are about the same as Germany and northern Italy – something which can be slightly annoying when bargain Slovenia and the cost-friendly Czech Republic are so nearby, but we’re confident you’ll still consider it money well spent.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What Languages Are Spoken in Austria?

Austria speaks German and it’s accented in a similar manner to the US and UK English. They understand each other perfectly well but some colloquialisms and accents can make things a little complicated upon occasion!

English is very widely spoken amongst younger Austrians but much less so with older people. It is a good idea to learn some very basic greetings and so forth out of politeness.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What Religions Are Practiced in Austria?

Austria is traditionally a Christian country that has leaned towards Roman Catholicism. Over the last 20 years or so the number of people identifying themselves as Catholics has dropped from around 70% to 55% – quite a substantial demographic shift that has mostly been accounted for by a rise in the numbers of people claiming to follow no religion whatsoever. The country operates freedom of expression and faith although it adopts a hardline towards militant aspects of some faiths.

Visitors should be respectful when visiting religious sites (as they should anywhere) and will be free to practice their own faith pretty much however they wish. Nowadays religion is a mostly private matter for most Austrians and it doesn’t play a substantial role in political or cultural life.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – Practical Tips From The Austria Travel Guide

Now we have reached the halfway stage of the Austria Travel Guide we’ll start to look more towards the practicalities involved with visiting Austria. It is worth mentioning here that while Austria and Germany have a long, intertwined, and sometimes rather messy shared history with Germany they really dislike being bunched into the same bracket!

If we’re talking in sweeping generalizations there is probably some truth in the fact that Austrians are socially a little more conservative than Germans, but don’t for a moment assume that makes them racist or intolerant of others. It is more ‘conservative’ in the way that they prefer people to be respectful of others, rather than the kind of far-right nonsense that sometimes still flares up within the country’s more backward political elements.

Most Austrians will openly discuss their country’s history – and we’d actually highly recommend a visit to Berchtesgaden (home of Hitler’s ‘Eagle’s Nest’) – with those who are also willing to chat about the many years Austria enjoyed as a successful empire too. To put it quite simply, Austrians are straight-talking people who quite fairly don’t take the blame for long-dead people’s mistakes. Those who respect that fact will enjoy and understand the modern country far better.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What About Health and Safety in Austria, Is It Safe?

Austria is a very safe country to visit. Take suitable care in Vienna where pickpockets are still a relatively common nuisance and you should not have any trouble whatsoever. Crime against tourists is generally very rare and practically unheard of outside of the capital city. If you hire a bike make sure to keep it chained up (bike crime is strangely widespread!).

If you fall sick then expect first-rate medical treatment wherever you happen to be. Medical insurance is essential for visitors (EU travelers should take out free reciprocal EHIC coverage) as costs can be extremely expensive. Make sure your policy includes coverage for alpine sports if that is relevant to your visit.

Tap water is safe to drink and you’ll find plenty of natural springs while exploring the countryside. Besides the ‘standard’ Alpine risks the only real potential danger comes from infected insect bites. Keep an eye out for ticks and learn how to safely remove them.

If you lose your prescription medication then chances are you’ll need a new script issued by an Austrian doctor (almost certain to speak English). Keep copies online and on your person of any essential medical notes to speed up the process. You may need to pay for this upfront and medications may not necessarily be the same brand that you are used to taking.

Overall, Austria is an extremely safe place to visit and the vast majority of visitors have no problems whatsoever when touring the country.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What is the Best Transportation in Austria?

Austrians love to moan about how ‘shoddy’ their service is compared to Switzerland and our advice is to utterly ignore them! Not many countries are so fantastic to experience by rail and you should take advantage of their very high-quality network of reliable trains whenever traveling between major destinations.

Tickets are best booked online and in advance to make sure you can find the best deals although ticket booths and English-language phone services are available (just don’t expect many bargains). The Ultimate Austria Travel Guide is not exaggerating when we say that the train is a magnificent way of seeing Austria – you will not need to bring a book.

Of course, the train can only get you so far and the good news is that the buses are also excellent quality and operate a highly efficient service. On a local level, it can be tricky at first to figure out which services are the quickest (those mountains do complicate things a little).

We suggest asking at your accommodation or politely approaching a younger local who’ll be likely more than happy to help. Cabs are quite expensive but may present a handier option for groups wishing to get around more remote areas efficiently. In cities, they are only really necessary late at night or if you are in a rush.

Perhaps unsurprisingly Austria is very popular with cyclists and if that’s your style you’ll enjoy plenty of facilities and hire options that cater to the cycling fraternity. Pretty much all hostels and hotels will have secure areas dedicated for bike storage. Alternatively, you could look towards hiring a car but we’d only suggest this if you are heading to very specific and out of the way destinations as part of a group.

Trains and buses are more than good enough to get around Austria easily and in comfort. Only consider flying if you are in a rush. Many visitors fly straight for Vienna but consider Salzburg or Graz as good alternatives and certainly more scenic points of arrival.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What Are the Best Accommodations in Austria?

There’s plenty of variety when looking for someplace to stay in Austria – just don’t expect to find many mind-blowingly good discounts or deals. Prices tend to be quite regimented according to the star rating of the establishment and the quality tends to not vary much either. We’d suggest not worrying too much about the quality of your accommodation and instead look for options which are in the best and most practical locations .

Do you really need a staggeringly expensive mountain view hotel when you’ll be spending most of the daylight hours actually on the peaks anyway? It’s a matter of personal choice but we’d recommend that budget-conscious visitors place utility ahead of pleasantries when it comes to finding somewhere worth staying!

Austria does have some excellent hostels and we’re happy to say that these are still the best places to stay if you are on a tighter budget. City hostels are still largely ‘classic’ styles and not oversaturated with ’boutique’ options that are now popping up elsewhere in Europe charging hotel room prices for not much extra. Hotels are generally very clean and well kept.

As mentioned above try and find local/private options for the best experiences if you are staying in an area longer than a couple of nights. Airbnb is actually a very handy resource in finding quality places to stay outside of the major cities – so use this and other online resources if they match your travel style.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – How Can I Practice Responsible Tourism In Austria?

Austria is a world leader when it comes to sustainable and environmentally responsible tourism. Over 70% of the country’s energy consumption is already met by renewable methods – so as you’d expect there are rather tight restrictions on how visitors are supposed to enjoy and care for their magnificent scenery. You could hire a car and/or fly between destinations, but a central aspect of their tourist industry is to reduce the carbon emissions per visitor to the lowest levels possible.

Rather impressively these initiatives actually not only make sense but do work in practice. The rail network is going to meet the needs of the vast majority of visitors just fine, and there are plenty of eco-lodges and environmentally benevolent hotels springing up throughout the country thanks to generous tax breaks and incentives.

While these are not usually the cheapest places to stay we’d suggest visitors who have the means look towards these options, as a substantial proportion of their profits are reinvested into local preservation work.

As a visitor, you should take care to stick to the rules and not hike/bike off the paths to help prevent erosion. There are very tight regulations on where you can camp for environmental as well as safety reasons, and open fires are legally banned in large parts of the country apart from on registered campsites. Tidy up after yourself and use those recycling bins whenever you see them (they’re split into multiple sections).

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What Food Should I Try In Austria?

One thing that the Ultimate Austria Travel Guide assures you when you visit this country is that you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the variety of cuisines available.

Vienna rivals Paris and Madrid when it comes to fine and opulent dining, but you’ll find just the same level of variety with international flavor as you would in London or New York. For visitors this is great news – you’ll be easily able to eat very well any time you wish – but what about those Austrian classics themselves?

Probably the best known Austrian dish outside of the country is the straightforward Wiener Schnitzel – a thin veal cutlet that is lightly fried and usually served alongside some simple vegetables – it is never served with sauce in Austria! You’ll find it everywhere and it is perfect for lining the stomach in preparation for that second glass of chilled

Austrian white wine! Goulash is another popular dish that tends to be more herby/creamy and less spicy than the Hungarian equivalent, while Tafelspitz meat stews and plenty of different styles of sausage tend to also feature on most menus.

All that being said, Austria is probably most famous for its sweeter delights – ideally served alongside a delicious cup of Viennese coffee (like a cappuccino but with less milk and no chocolate sprinkles). Settle down and enjoy some Apfelstrudel (wafer-apple pie goodness!), and/or perhaps a decadent slab of chocolate and apricot Sachertorte cake.

Austrian food is made to keep you warm and well fuelled! Most places will have plenty of options that cater to intolerances and restricted diets, and in regards to prices, we highly suggest you check out online listings/reviews for better and cheaper options away from the major tourist hubs.

Eating out in Austria isn’t a daily habit for most locals, so make the most of it when you do decide to splash the cash!

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What Should I Pack for A Trip to Austria?

Unless you are biking/hiking/skiing for large parts of your stay in Austria you shouldn’t really need to bring anything special with you. As mentioned earlier in the Ultimate Austria Travel Guide this is a very safe country but a money belt is not a bad idea if you are spending long periods in urban areas and using the often quite busy public transport.

A good pair of suitable walking shoes is a sensible idea – perhaps stick to sneakers/soft tops in towns and more practical shoes/boots when out exploring. Remember to make sure they are properly worn in beforehand and properly waterproofed.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What Clothes Should You Wear In Austria?

You shouldn’t worry too much about what you choose to wear while visiting this country. Providing your dress sense is not explicitly offensive or too scruffy/touristy you’ll not raise any eyebrows! There are quite strict dress codes in the more upscale Viennese night spots and theaters/music halls.

Dress appropriately for the outdoors and pack a lightweight waterproof even when hiking over the summer.

Budget Austria Travel Guide – What Are Some Interesting & Important Facts about Eastern Austria?

We’re almost at the end of this Austria Travel Guide and very much hope you have found this an informative and interesting read. Austria is a fantastic country to visit – especially for those who like to travel responsibly – that offers a distinctive Alpine experience that is more than just a match for neighboring Switzerland.

While the scenery is always going to blow anyone away – and the outdoor pursuits are what makes this such an exceptional destination – do take the time to properly explore the cities as well as you can. Remember to venture off towards those smaller towns and villages when you have the chance – you don’t need to go far before you will be the only visitor in the neighborhood!

We’ll finish this Austria Travel Guide with a few handpicked facts to hopefully entice you more towards taking the plunge and visiting this spectacular country yourself some time.

▸ About one-quarter of all Austrians live in Vienna.

▸ Vienna zoo – founded in 1752 – is the oldest in the world.

▸ The Alps cover 62% of the entire country.

▸ Austria invented the postcard!

▸ When toasting it is considered rude not to look the other person in the eyes (and punishable by 7 years of bad sex!).

▸ Mozart was buried in a pauper’s grave somewhere in Vienna. Even today we still do not know where.

▸ Skiing is the national sport and taken extremely seriously!

▸ The Eisriesenwelt Caves are the longest ice cave system on the planet (that we know of).

▸ Almost every major city has a unique variety of cake – see if you can collect them all!

▸ Marcus Aurelius died in Vindobona (Vienna) in A.D 180.

We hope you enjoyed reading the Austria Travel Guide – and good travels! Contact us with any questions you may have about travel to Austria.

Now that you have read about Austria, what’s next? Let’s learn more about a France trip. Check out The Ultimate France Travel Guide

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• How much do I need for a trip to Austria?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Austria?

You should plan to spend around $163 (€151) per day on your vacation in Austria. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $41 (€38) on meals
• $27 (€25) on local transportation
• $175 (€162) on hotels

A one week trip to Austria for two people costs, on average, $2,289 (€2,113) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 163 € 151
• One Week Per person $ 1,144 € 1,056
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 2,289 € 2,113
• One Month Per person $ 4,905 € 4,527
• One Week For a couple $ 2,289 € 2,113
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 4,578 € 4,225
• One Month For a couple $ 9,809 € 9,055

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Austria cost?

A one week trip to Austria usually costs around $1,144 (€1,056) for one person and $2,289 (€2,113) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Austria on average costs around $2,289 (€2,113) for one person and $4,578 (€4,225) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Austria will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Austria on average costs around $4,905 (€4,527) for one person and $9,809 (€9,055) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Austria is $152 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

• Salzkammergut Cycle Path - Classic Tour Cat. A 8 Days - 6 Destinations $ 821
• The Best of Austria & Switzerland 11 Days - 12 Destinations $ 4,119

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Austria is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Austria is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Spain or Germany.

For more details, see Is Austria Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Austria?

The average Austria trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Austria travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Austria

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Austria is $88 (€81). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Austria is $175 (€162). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 88 € 81
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 175 € 162

Hotel Prices in Austria

Looking for a hotel in Austria? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Austria based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $126. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

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Local Transportation Budget in Austria

The cost of a taxi ride in Austria is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $27 (€25) per person, per day, on local transportation in Austria.

• Local Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 27 € 25

Recommended Services

• Vienna Airport Private Arrival Transfer Viator $ 184
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What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for Local Transportation in Austria are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Local Transportation prices in Austria, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Bus to Airport € 30

Food Budget in Austria

While meal prices in Austria can vary, the average cost of food in Austria is $41 (€38) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Austria should cost around $16 (€15) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Austria is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 41 € 38

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What did other people spend on Food?

Typical prices for Food in Austria are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Food prices in Austria, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Soup for Lunch € 3.75
• Pasta Lunch € 8.20
• Pizza Supper (for 2) € 16
• Ice Cream € 2.60
• Chocolate € 1.70
• Lunch from Market (for 2) € 6.62
• Kebabs for Dinner (for 2) € 8.00
• Strudel and Drinks € 19

Entertainment Budget in Austria

Entertainment and activities in Austria typically cost an average of $24 (€22) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 24 € 22

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What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Austria are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Entertainment prices in Austria, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

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Tips and Handouts Budget in Austria

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Austria is $2.10 (€1.93) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Austria is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 2.10 € 1.93

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in Austria

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in Austria is $52 (€48), as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 52 € 48

Alcohol Budget in Austria

The average person spends about $19 (€17) on alcoholic beverages in Austria per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 19 € 17
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What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Typical prices for Alcohol in Austria are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Alcohol prices in Austria, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Beers at Hutte (for 2) € 6.00
• Beer € 3.70

Water Budget in Austria

On average, people spend $3.55 (€3.27) on bottled water in Austria per day. The public water in Austria is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 3.55 € 3.27

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Vienna Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

Vienna. Home to schnitzel, Freud, Mozart, the Habsburgs, opera, art, coffee shops, and so much more.

Over the decade I have been visiting this city, I’ve watched Vienna change from a stiff capital city to a cool, hip, foodie, and arty paradise. (Ok, it’s always been an arty paradise and maybe the “stiff capital” was just my incorrect first impression.)

Since my first visit, I’ve come to appreciate the city and all it has to offer. Vienna has countless museums, palaces, markets, restaurants, quirky art exhibits, delicious food halls, neighbors a wonderful wine region, and is a quick train trip to Bratislava .

There’s a lot to do in Vienna and you can easily spend weeks trying to see it all. In fact, there’s so much to do here that I advise you to spend an extra day here. If you think three days is enough, spend four. If you’re here for four, spend five.

No matter how long you plan to be in the city, this Vienna travel guide can help you plan the perfect trip — and save money along the way!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Vienna

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in vienna.

1. See Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere is home to an incredible art collection with works by Renoir, Monet, and Van Gogh, among others. It also has a large portrait collection. The Palace has a permanent collection at the Upper Belvedere while special exhibitions are held at the Lower Belvedere (contemporary art is located at the Belvedere 21, which is nearby). The free grounds feature beautiful fountains, gravel walkways, ponds, statues, plants, and flowers. Admission is 16 EUR and guided tours can be booked in advance for a flat rate fee of 90 EUR for up to 20 people. Belvedere 21 is closed on Mondays but has late night opening on Thursdays.

2. Visit Schonbrunn Palace

This 1,441-room palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and started off as a hunting lodge before becoming the summer residence of the Habsburgs, one of the most prominent dynasties in European history, during the 1700s. It’s now one of Vienna’s top attractions. The interior is incredibly ornate with paintings, woodwork, chandeliers, and elaborate decorations. You can explore 22 rooms with the Imperial Tour (18 EUR) or 40 rooms with the Grand Tour (22 EUR). You could easily fill a whole day here.

3. Explore the Hofburg Imperial Palace

One of the biggest palace complexes in the world, the Hofburg is the official residence of the President of Austria. Previously, it was the principal palace of the Habsburg dynasty for more than 7 centuries. There are several exhibits here, including the Sisi exhibit (which highlights the life of Empress Elisabeth) and the royal apartments themselves. The famous Vienna Boys Choir performs at High Mass at the Gothic Imperial Chapel every Sunday. The Sisi costs 16 EUR and includes admission to the Sisi Museum, the Imperial Apartments, and the Imperial Silver Collection. Free audio guides & printed descriptions are available.

4. Visit the Mozart Museum

Though Mozart lived at a handful of different addresses in Vienna, this is the only apartment that has survived. He lived here from 1784-1787. Spread over 3 floors, you can learn about his life, family, music, friends, and listen to his work. The exhibit on the first floor, consisting of four large rooms, two small rooms and a kitchen, is where Mozart and his family actually lived although you have to use your imagination as there is not much left of original furniture and not much is known about how the rooms looked or what they were used for. There’s a variety of paintings, artifacts, letters, and memorabilia from his life as well. Admission is 12 EUR.

5. Do a Wine Tour

Other things to see and do in vienna, 1. see st. stephen’s cathedral.

Stephansdom is a 12th-century Romanesque and Gothic cathedral in Vienna, noted for its colorful roof. The cathedral has been destroyed and rebuilt over the years, with the current version of the cathedral largely initiated by Duke Rudolf IV (1339–1365). Its most recent reconstruction took place just after World War II. You can take a tour of the cathedral, the catacombs, and climb the north and south towers (which offer excellent views of the city). Admission is 20 EUR, guided tours are 3.50 EUR and audio guides are 6 EUR. Catacomb tours are 6 EUR and going up the towers costs 5.50 EUR for the South Tower and 6 EUR for the North Tower.

2. Go to the Naschmarkt

This is Vienna’s largest open-air food market. It’s been operating for hundreds of years and has more than 100 stalls with a variety of international restaurants, street stalls, and grocers. It’s a little touristy (don’t go food shopping here) but it has a cool vibe and, on a warm sunny day, it’s nice to sit out with a meal and a glass of wine. Despite its fame, there are still a lot of locals here. Be sure to hit up Umarfisch for seafood and wine. On Saturdays, there’s a flea market here too.

3. See the art in the Museumsquartier

Once the imperial stables, the Museumsquartier is home to all kinds of art and cultural institutions and events. Three museums worth checking out in the MQ are the Leopold Museum for Art Nouveau and Expressionism; Kunsthalle Wien, an exhibition center with rotating exhibitions; and the Museum of Modern Art, which has the largest collection of modern art in central Europe. A pass to all three museums is 27.50 EUR. The Museumsquartier is also home to a number of festivals throughout the year (including open-air concerts and a fashion week). A variety of tours are run on some Saturdays including a backstage tour offering the chance to see behind the studio doors of the guest artists.

4. Visit the House of Music

This is a small but fascinating museum that features four floors of exhibits on some of the world’s most well-known Austrian composers, including Mozart, Schubert, Strauss, and Schoenberg. You can view manuscripts and artifacts, and there’s also a virtual stage where you can conduct your own symphony. It’s fun, interactive, and educational. Admission is 16 EUR.

5. See a classical performance

Austria has contributed its fair share of composers to the world, so it’s no surprise that you can find plenty of opportunities to indulge in the classics here. Just going to one of the many theaters and concert halls in Vienna is an experience in and of itself as the buildings are so historic and beautifully decorated. If you’ve ever considered taking in an opera, symphony, or ballet (the Vienna State Ballet is one of the best in the world), this is the place to do it. Prices vary depending on the performance but expect to pay at least 40 EUR for standard tickets. For opera, I recommend buying last-minute standing-room tickets for 4-18 EUR the day of a show. The 435 tickets usually go on sale 80 minutes before it starts (you can line up earlier than that, but they don’t start selling until right before the show). It’s first come, first served and you can only buy one ticket per person but it’s the cheapest way to see a performance!

6. Visit the Museum of Art History

This is the largest art museum in the country, with works from ancient Egypt and Greece through to the 18th century. There are over 700,000 items in the collections so it’s worth taking the time to explore (especially if you’re a history buff like me). Opened in 1891, the primary collection originally belonged to the Habsburgs, which includes tons of portraits and armor. Admission is 18 EUR.

7. Hang out in the Jewish Square

For centuries, Vienna was home to a sizable Jewish population. Then the Nazis came. This area of town features two important museums: the Vienna Jewish Museum, which details the role Viennese Jews played in the development of city life; and the Medieval Synagogue (Misrachi-Haus), which highlights the history of Jewish life in Vienna. Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to both sites within four days of issue. There is also the sobering Holocaust memorial nearby, designed by British artist Rachel Whiteread.

8. Walk the Ring Road

This historic loop is brimming with beautiful architecture. It’s here where you can find the Parliament building, City Hall, both the Museum of Fine Art and the National History Museum, as well as the State Opera. It’s a relaxing (and free) way to spend some time soaking up the city and admiring its history.

9. Visit the Freud Museum

Sigmund Freud, the famous founder of psychoanalysis, lived in this apartment-turned-museum from 1891-1938. The museum was opened in 1971 with the help of Anna Freud (his youngest daughter) and is home to the original furniture, Freud’s private collection of antiques, and first editions of his works. There are also films from his private life. It’s small and only takes about an hour to visit. Admission is 14 EUR.

10. Visit the Albertina

The Albertina is one of the best museums in the city (which says a lot because this is a city of museums). It’s housed in one of the private residence wings of the Imperial Palace. It’s most famous for its print collection, which is comprised of over one million prints and 60,000 drawings. However, they have a lot of temporary exhibits that rotate through here too, which I found to be the highlight (I saw an excellent one on Raphael, the famous Italian Renaissance painter). Admission to the Albertina and the Albertina Modern costs 2.90 EUR.

11. Visit the National History Museum

Home to a detailed anthropology exhibit, as well as a planetarium and prehistoric exhibit, the National History Museum is worth the time if you’re a museum buff. Their collection boasts over 100,000 items, including a huge collection of meteorites. It’s also home to the 25,000-year-old Venus of Willendorf statue, which was discovered in Austria. There’s also a planetarium that offers shows in German and English (the live shows are only available in German). Admission is 14 EUR.

12. Day trip to Bratislava

Slovakia’s capital of Bratislava makes for a great day trip from Vienna. Located just one hour away, you can easily head there for a day to explore its charming medieval center, see its several castles, drink at the historic beer halls, and stroll along the Danube. Bratislava is a relatively small capital so it’s easy to get around on foot. Trains depart regularly from Vienna for as little as 11 EUR, while Flixbus runs a regular bus service with tickets starting at around 6 EUR.

13. Explore Vienna Woods

This beautiful woodland (known as Wienerwald) is located on the outskirts of the city and is filled with a lot of hiking paths. It’s located around 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the city, extremely popular with locals (few tourists get out there). If you don’t have a vehicle, you can take public transportation or try the ride-sharing service BlaBlaCar. It’s a nice place to relax with a book, stroll, and enjoy the laid-back pace of life.

Vienna Travel Costs

For anyone traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city. Camping in Vienna starts around 8 EUR per night in the low season for a single tent site without electricity and around 22 EUR in the peak season (July-August).

Budget hotel prices – Two-star budget hotels start around 40 EUR per night for a double or twin but often cost closer to 60-80 EUR. This usually includes free Wi-Fi and basic amenities (TV, coffee maker) but rarely free breakfast.

Airbnb is another budget-friendly option here, with private rooms starting around 50 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 65 EUR per night (though prices average around 90 EUR).

Food – Austrian cuisine is a hearty, meat-oriented one, with a focus on meat, soups, stews, and pastries. The country’s food has been influenced by its neighbors in Central Europe, as well as from the expansion of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (1867–1918). Popular dishes include rindsuppe (beef soup), smoked meat with sauerkraut, wiener schnitzel (traditionally made from veal), strudel, and tafelspitz (beef boiled in broth). Breakfast usually involves bread or rolls with cold cuts, jam, or cheese.

A typical inexpensive restaurant meal costs around 15 EUR. Expect to pay at least 35 EUR for a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant.

If you’re on a budget, stick to eating at the local markets where you can find a great selection of traditional Austrian food (like schnitzel, goulash, sausages, and potatoes) as well as Asian, Greek, and Middle Eastern dishes for around 8-16 EUR.

Fast food like McDonald’s or Burger King costs around 9 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza should cost less than 20 EUR while Chinese food is 9-15 EUR for a main dish. Sandwiches and salads cost between 7-9 EUR.

A beer at the bar costs around 4.25 EUR while a latte/cappuccino costs 3.80 EUR. Bottled water is 2 EUR.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 30-50 EUR for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat. Hofer and Penny Markt are two of the cheaper supermarket options for groceries. For more organic options (or if you have dietary restrictions), shop at Spar.

For tasty open-faced sandwiches, check out Piotrowski. And if you’re vegan or vegetarian, head to The LaLa (healthy eats and tasty baked goods) or Swing Kitchen (fast food/burgers).

Backpacking Vienna Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 65 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all of your meals, visit a few museums, take a free walking tour, limit your drinking, and take local transportation to get around. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR to your budget per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 170 EUR, you can stay in an Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out for most meals, have a few drinks at the bar, see more museums and palaces, a day trip to Bratislava, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 300 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink out at the bar as much as you’d like, rent a car or take taxis to get around, and do private guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Prices are in EUR.

Vienna Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Vienna can be an expensive city if you don’t watch your budget. Accommodation, coffees, museums, and eating out can add up quickly. Here are some tips to help you save money when you visit Vienna:

• Take a free walking tour – Vienna offers a handful of free walking tours which are great ways to get familiar with the city and the culture. Good Tours , Anna Loves Vienna , Vienna Greeters , and The Original Free Vienna Walking Tour are all great options. Just be sure to tip your guide!
• Cook your own meals – If you want to save money on your food budget, stay in a hostel or Airbnb with a kitchen. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as eating out, but it saves you money!
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing (or similar sharing economy sites) is a great way to save money. It’s also a great way to meet a knowledgeable local who can help you better understand the city and its people.
• Skip the fast train into Vienna – Unless you are in a rush to get downtown, skip the City Airport Train. It’s 11 EUR compared to the regular train (which is 4.30 EUR). The time difference is negligible, and that extra 6.70 EUR could be better spent on a cold beer!
• Get a Vienna PASS – With the Vienna PASS you get entry to over 60 attractions, museums, and monuments throughout the city. It costs 76 EUR for a one-day pass but if you’re planning to visit several of Vienna’s most popular museums/galleries then getting the pass could save you a fair amount of money especially as it has an option for public transportation too! If you’d rather not spend that much, some of the museums (that also belong to Vienna Pass) have also developed their own ticket packages.

Where to Stay in Vienna

Vienna has plenty of fun, social hostels. Here are my favorites ones to stay at:

• Wombats City Hostel
• The MEININGER Hotel
• JO&JOE
• Westend City Hostel

How to Get Around Vienna

Public transport – Public transport in Vienna is safe, fast, and efficient. There are four main forms of public transport: bus (Autobus), local train (S-Bahn), tram (Straßenbahn), and subway (U-Bahn). Public transportation in Vienna works on an honor system. This can be confusing at first as there are no formal ticket checks or barriers at stations making it appear that public transport is free. Public transport is not free. You need to buy a ticket at the machines within the stations. If you get caught by one of the undercover ticket inspectors they charge you a hefty fine.

A single ticket is 2.40 EUR (zone 1 only), a 24-hour pass is 8 EUR, a 48-hour pass is 14.10 EUR, and a 72-hour pass is 17.10 EUR. The weekly pass (valid from Monday to Monday) is also 17.10 EUR.

If you’re flying into Vienna, the direct airport train is only 16 minutes to downtown and costs 11 EUR (19 EUR return). If you’re not in a hurry, however, take the regular train instead. It is only 4.30 EUR.

Taxis – Taxis should be avoided if you’re on a budget as they can add up fast. Fares start at 4 EUR and go up by 1.70 EUR per kilometer. Uber is also available here and is cheaper than a taxi so use it instead.

Bicycle – If you want to explore the city by bike you can find rentals for under 10 EUR per day via ListnRide . It matches you with a local renting their bike for cheap.

Car Rental – You don’t need to rent a car to get around Vienna. Most areas are walkable and public transportation is efficient. However, if you want to rent a car to get out of the city, expect to pay at least 35 EUR per day. Make sure to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) — you need one for any car rental.

When to Go to Vienna

There’s no wrong time to visit Vienna. The summer months (June-August) offer the best weather. However, this is the peak season for tourists so things are busier. During July and August, many local residents leave the city for what they call Sommerpause (Summer break) meaning many small local businesses close. Expect daily highs around 25°C (77°F)

Winter is from December to March. It gets cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -15°C (5°F). That said, November and December are considered to be the most magical months in the city because of the Christmas markets. The city looks gorgeous covered in snow!

Personally, I think the best time to visit Vienna is the shoulder season (April-June and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many other tourists and prices aren’t as high as in the summer.

How to Stay Safe in Vienna

Vienna is a very safe city. That said, pick-pocketing can still occur in large crowds or on crowded public transportation. The 1st District (where you can find many of the city’s historic landmarks) and the 4th District (Karlsplatz/Karlskirche) are the main areas to be vigilant.

Be on the lookout for fake event tickets being sold on the street. This can be easily avoided by only booking tickets directly from the venue.

Also be cautious of people posing as plain-clothes police officers asking to see your passport. This has become common in the main tourist areas and in public transport stations. When you produce your passport, they take it and accuse you of a minor crime and demand you pay a fine. If you refuse, they can get aggressive and while you are distracted an accomplice picks your pockets.

While these scams are rare, it’s better to be safe than sorry. You can read about more common travel scams here so you know what to look out for.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Look for specific tips on solo female blogs as they’ll have more tips from experience than I can provide.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Vienna Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Vienna Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Backpacking Austria Travel Guide

Welcome to my backpacking backpacking Austria travel guide! Austria is one of the most culturally rich countries in Central Europe. The country is blessed with fantastic mountains, laid-back wine taverns, trendy bars, and wonderful cultural traditions. There are alpine valleys, the exquisite architecture of Vienna and Salzburg , the world’s most famous ski resorts, postcard-worthy farmland, and friendly locals that will make you want to return. It’s no wonder that backpacking Austria is high on any budget traveler’s list.

There is truly so much on offer in Austria that it blows my mind more backpackers don’t take advantage of it. Austria, however, tends to be more expensive than other countries in Central Europe.

For many travelers, the thought of backpacking Austria for more than a couple days is a bank account draining fantasy. So how does one navigate the steep costs associated with backpacking Austria? Is it even possible to travel to Vienna on a budget?

Read More: The Pros And Cons of Solo Travel

In this Austria travel guide, you will get all the tips and tricks you need to travel to Austria on a budget. Get Austria travel itineraries, in-depth tips on backpacking in Vienna, Linz, and Salzburg, and Graz, top things to do in Austria, where to go, where to stay, and much more.

By the end of this Austria travel guide, you’ll get some Austria vacation ideas and will no longer fear the high prices in this part of Europe (well maybe a little bit). Plus, once you get to know what’s on offer in Austria you will probably start preparing your backpack right away!

Let’s get right to it!

Best Time to Visit Austria

Austria is open for backpackers year-round, though what you can enjoy doing depends on the season. Winters are cold and encourage plenty of winter sports. If you’re into skiing and snowboarding, then summer is certainly the low season. Though the various ski resorts of Pitztal, Sölden, Stubai, and Hintertux, get rolling in the summer months.

Summer is arguably the most beautiful. Trees and flowers are blooming and smelling so damn good. Hiking in the mountains is very comfortable. With the good weather come the crowds. Burggarten, Volksgarten, and Stadtpark will almost certainly be crowded with travelers willing to take some cool pictures.

Vienna and Salzburg will be busy at their peak season between June and August. Expect the flight prices and accommodation to be higher, and prepare for some crowds in all popular destinations.

Spring and Summer are also excellent times to come backpacking in Austria. If you visit between late winter and early spring, expect cold temperatures.

Austria really has four distinct seasons. Each has something special to offer.

Keep in mind that the weather in the Alps might be unpredictable as it depends on the altitude. You should stay informed about the weather forecast when planning cycling and hiking routes. Bring light jackets and other proper clothes in case the weather get worse. The ski season in Austria starts in December and lasts until mid-April or even May (in the highlands).

Austria Entry Requirements

EU citizens will only need their passport to enter Austria. Citizens of Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and the US, should have their passports valid at least six months beyond their stay. If you plan on staying longer than 90 days you must obtain the appropriate visa. Otherwise, you don’t need to pre-apply for a visa. Other nationalities will need to apply for a Schengen Visa in advance to enter any country in the Schengen Area.

As a non-European traveler, you can travel in the Schengen zone countries for 90 days without a visa. Once six months have passed from your original arrival date, you can come in again as your visa resets.

How To Get To Austria

To start your Austrian backpacking adventure, all of the larger cities are viable candidates depending on your Austria travel itinerary. If you plan on spending a majority of your time backpacking Vienna for example, catch a bus or book a cheap flight with EasyJet or Ryanair from literally any capital in Europe. Although Austria is a small country, extensive rail and bus networks across Europe offer an efficient and comfortable way to get to Austria.

Whilst looking for plane tickets to your chosen backpacking destination, I advise that you look at multiple cities and book the cheapest flight even if that city isn’t in your targeted region. As I already mentioned, you can easily fly between all major cities in Europe on the cheap. Sometimes the main domestic carrier – Tyrolean Airways offers cheap flight deals so you may want to check it. The carrier operates several flights a day between Austria’s main cities, such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck.

For example, you might find it cheaper to fly into Düsseldorf or Berlin first. You can then book a second flight to your intended destination.

If you are already traveling in Europe before coming to Austria, try to end your trip in the city with the cheapest flights. It’s common sense and an oft-repeated piece of advice but I think it’s worth repeating.

Austria Travel Guide to Getting Around On a Budget

Okay, there are many great ways to get around Austria! If you plan on hitting up multiple cities in Austria in a short period of time, the Eurail Pass is the way to go. Since the country is a part of the Eurail network, you can buy a rail pass either for Austria or for all of Europe.

Buying a single ticket each time you ride individually adds up fast, so in the end, buying a pass it totally worth it.

Long-distance buses are probably the cheapest option, though it usually takes longer to get from A to B. A 7-hour journey with companies like Eurolines, Busabout, or ÖBB is likely to cost you between 20-45 Euros, depending on the distance and time.

I Want to Move Abroad. Where Do I Start?

Consider taking the Bundesbus for shorter trips between cities and to the remote corners of the Alps. For example, Bundesbus will get you to some ski resorts in Voralberg and Tirol on a budget without the necessity of renting a car.

When I compare journey times and costs for train and bus travel, taking a train will almost always be faster . Although, buses in Austria are plentiful and the more economical option. Long-distance buses are equipped with air conditioning, an on-board restroom, and reclining seats with headrests. That is why I like traveling by bus. It gives me more flexibility when I modify or cancel a reservation. You can find long-distance buses for as little as 5 Eur if you’re really on it too.

Bicycle travel is extremely popular among backpackers on a budget. Bicycles are available at over 160 railway stations and can be returned to any other station with a rental office. Go on a bike trip in Wachau and sample the famous wine. Also, don’t miss Hallstatt and the picturesque lake next to it. There is a cycling route so you can see the best of the region in a day.

All big lakes and rivers, like the Danube, are navigable. River cruises along the Danube start on Easter day and last until the end of October providing a chance for travelers to visit the neighbouring countries. Although lake cruise season usually runs from May to September.

Austria Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit in Austria

Austria is full of adventure potential. Where ever you choose to spend your time backpacking here, you can be sure that you will leave with your eyes wide and your travel heart full.

The Austrian states do share many things: natural beauty, friendly locals, clean cities, to name a few.

They also are very distinct and unique from one another: different landscape, traditions, hiking routes, attractions.

No matter what you have heard or seen regarding Austria, leave your expectations at the door. What awaits is a country full of classical music, history, and a definite highlight of your backpacking trip to Europe.

Let me take a look at the Austrian states that make backpacking in Austria so special!

The former home of the Habsburg Dynasty is also its own state. It’s the smallest Austrian state in terms of geography but it’s full of old imperial glory, classical music and awe-inspiring architecture, which makes it one of Central Europe’s most popular city. That shouldn’t be surprising when you know that many backpackers blew a hole in their backpacking budgets trying to experience Vienna’s top tourist attractions.

That said, there plenty of free things to do in Vienna that can help avoid putting a hole in your pockets.

The city is also one of the best places to visit in Austria if you are passionately fond of classical music. You probably have heard that Vienna was home to the most famous classical music composers such as Johannes Brahms, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Johann Strauss, and Ludwig van Beethoven. Aside from the big classical music scene, there’s also a young and hip side. In Vienna, I stumbled upon many hipster coffee shops, neighborhoods full of contemporary art and unique pop-up bars. These were the highlights of my backpacking trip to Vienna!

2. Lower Austria (Niederösterreich)

Surrounding the capital on all sides, Lower Austria is well-known for its vineyards in Wienerwald and best white vines from the Wachau Valley. The region offers backpackers one of Austria’s most lively cultural landscapes that contribute directly to the region’s endless charm.

Hiking in Lower Austria brings stunning new experiences due to hundreds of miles of marked hiking paths and many mellow old wine cellars. Consider Lower Austria as a great and cheap weekend getaway from Vienna. Most hotels are very affordable and finding one here isn’t a problem because they’re signposted at the various approaches to the resort or village.

3. Upper Austria

The region is known as an outdoor holiday destination with plenty up hiking and cycling trails in the summer and skiing and cross-country opportunities in winter. Upper Austria attracts travelers by the amazing combination of vast areas of green spaces and historical buildings. A town of Bad Ischl was a residence of Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife, Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Moreover, it is famous for its thermal baths and hot springs. Its capital Linz is so much different from Salzburg and Vienna. It’s the third-largest city in Austria that harbors many historic treasures. Don’t miss the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave – it’s breathtaking!

Styria is a province deeply steeped in folklore and is famous for its beautiful natural settings in the Salzkammergut region. They also call it the “Green Heart of Austria”. Styria is a land of countless mountain peaks, including the Hoher Dachstein. The Dachstein Massif covers an area of around 20×30 km with dozens of peaks above 2500 m, while the highest is in the southern and southwestern corners of the province. Plenty of lakes, alpine pastures, vineyards, and green hills make Styria a great destination for hikers, cyclists, and winter sports fans alike.

Tyrol is yet another great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It has literally everything an avid hiker like me may need: miles of walking and hiking trails across nature, historical sights, and architecture, clear mountain streams, and museums. Tyrol is good at any time of the year. It’s great for winter sports lovers because of ski resorts such as Kitzbühel, Mayrhofen, St. Anton, and the very family-friendly Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis.

If you have decided to start with Innsbruck, you may want to visit the Alpine zoo, Renaissance Ambras castle and the medieval Hofburg castle. Spanish Hall in Ambras castle is the place where annual classical concerts are held. If you prefer exploring nature be sure to visit the lakes of Tyrol. Achensee, Pillersee and Schwarzsee, each of these lakes represent a great subject to explore. I find the Tristachersee to be the most picturesque lake in Eastern Tyrol. Hidden among the trees it is just 4 km away from the city of Lienz.

6. Carinthia

Carinthia is one of my favorite Austrian province for a multitude of reasons. If you love idyllic hiking areas, beautiful villages, and diving deep into the history of monasteries, churches, and abbeys, you are going to love Carinthia.

Klagenfurt is the base of operations for all hikers entering Austria’s southernmost province. Here you will start to get to grips with what backpacking Carinthia has on offer.

As I said before in this Austria travel guide before there are heaps of hiking trails to explore in Carinthia. There is the Grossglockner mountain for hikers of any experience and the national museum for Norse mythology lovers.

Enjoy a long walk through the streets of Klagenfurt. The wonderfully preserved Lindwurm fountain, the symbol of the town is a local explorer’s delight.

I recommend taking a drive along the Grossglockner High-Alpine Road. This 30-mile-long spectacular road leads through all vegetation steps on earth. At the end of the road, you find the scenic mountain village Heiligenblut at the foot of the Grossglockner mountain. Avid skiers and snowboarders meet on the slopes in the town of Bad Kleinkirchheim.

7. Vorarlberg

The province of Vorarlberg, which borders with Germany and Switzerland, is one of the smallest in the country. Although, it sees almost as many crowds on its peak season as Tyrol and Salzburg do. Vorarlberg is a land of old towns, ski resorts, mountains and incredible Lake Constance (Bodensee).

During wintertime, the province is all about skiing, alpine slopes, and fluffy snow. All kinds of winter activities that fit any budget. Despite its relatively small size, Vorarlberg offers a range of hiking tours and an abundance of things to see and do. Cities like Bregenz and Bludenz should be on your bucket list if you visit Vorarlberg. Additionally, if you go skiing, consider hitting these ski resorts: Lech, Zürs am Arlberg, Sonnenkopf, Silveretta Montafon, Bregenzerwald, St. Anton am Arlberg and St. Christoph am Arlberg. The last two are the iconic ski resorts known worldwide.

8. Burgenland

Burgenland is gaining popularity with backpackers, but leaving the beaten path is still so damn easy in Burgenland. Blessed with the lowest point in the country, and Austria’s largest lake, and outlying fairy-tale pastoral landscapes, it is no surprise that more and more wine enthusiasts, bird watchers and hikers are discovering Burgenland.

There are several excellent places to eat and drink in Eisenstadt. Also, be sure to hit up the magnificent Esterhazy Palace. It’s now entirely renovated to 19th-century grandeur, with several floors of superb and opulent furniture befitting the family’s station. Very impressive indeed. That’s the thing about backpacking in Austria: architectural quirks are everywhere.

Austria Budget Travel Hacks

A large part of your budget for traveling Austria will be split between pricey accommodation and expensive food (and drinks). Below are my tips for how to reduce travel costs:

1) Camp. With plenty of awesome mountains, small rural campgrounds, huge recreation parks that often some extra amenities for those who don’t want to pitch their own tent, camping is an essential way to save money whilst backpacking Austria. Okay, sometimes you just need to book a hostel. Fair enough. But outside of major cities, when there are no hostels available, finding a decent campsite is a must. That option – a budget option – is camping, which will take you to beautiful destinations and get you off of the beaten path.

What Motivates People to Travel

2) Cook your own food: If your hostel doesn’t provide self-catering kitchen facilities consider buying a portable backpacking stove and cook your own food. It will save you some serious cash whilst backpacking across Austria. You can also reduce your expenses by buying groceries at the supermarket and eating out rarely. Some restaurants in Vienna are very expensive. I think few things are better on the road than sipping a hot cup of tea as you are watching the sun goes down behind the mountains.

3) Couchsurf: The Austrians may seem a bit grumpy at times but in general they are awesome folks. Get to know some! Check out Couchsurfing to meet a knowledgeable local who can help you better understand the country, culture, and traditions. When using Couchsurfing or similar sharing economy sites be sure to personalize your messages and look like a real human being. A generic copy and paste message are much more likely to get turned down. Make yourself stand out.

4) Don’t drink much whilst backpacking Austria: I know it can be hard to give up on drinking whilst you are on a backpacking adventure. I’ll admit, I have spent a fortune over the years on drinking alcohol. But in Austria, one beer might cost you €4 EUR.

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If you are traveling in Austria for a couple of weeks and have one beer a day, well, you do the math. It’s a lot of money. And ordering mixed drinks whilst backpacking in Vienna for example? You’re looking at €10-15 EUR a pop.

My point is taking a break from drinking while hiking in the mountains and saving it for the campfire that night. You can put the money you save on booze towards renting a car, sampling local pastry, or going to a museum. If you really want to save money and travel Austria on a budget, give up alcohol.

Backpacking Austria Budget and Costs

It’s no secret that backpacking in Austria can be a pricey venture if you are not careful, but you probably already knew that. Nevertheless, just because backpacking in Austria isn’t as cheap as backpacking in Hungary or Ukraine you shouldn’t feel discouraged or intimidated to come here.

Each province in Austria requires a different budget and travel strategy. Prices can be similar for some things I would say, but not always.

Staying in hostels every evening, booking trains last minute, going to the bar night after night, and eating out for every meal adds up before you can say Unabhaengigkeitserklaerungen (German). If you are backpacking Austria, it’s always a good idea to bring a mixture of cash and bank/ credit card . ATMs are plentiful in major cities and smaller towns in the countryside. Keep in mind that smaller and a bit remote accommodations and shops will only accept cash.

I thought it would be helpful to break down the costs in a realistic way to help you get to grips with your own Austria backpacking budget. Check the chart below:

Budget Breakdown for a Trip to Austria

Estimated cost.

Backpacking Austria Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Austria

Aside from dreamy Austrian refuge huts, your comfy tent, and a stranger’s couch, sometimes one needs to take a deep breath and book a hostel.

Hostels are in abundance and the most affordable budget travel accommodation option for backpackers in Austria’s bigger cities. Hostels tend to be very clean and event the shared bathrooms often have a high level of cleanliness and sanitation. When you just need a place to lay your head or a spot to meet fellow backpackers like yourself, hostels are clearly where it’s at!

For outdoor enthusiasts traveling with a tent, camping is available around the country. There are a few hundred campgrounds that offer tent sites and basic cabins as low costs. Prices range from €20 EUR ($23 USD) per night for two people and closer to €25 EUR ($29 USD) during peak season. If you want to save money on accommodation there are large campsites on the outskirts of big cities like Vienna.

Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Austria:

Wombats City Hostels Vienna At The Naschmarkt Vienna Hostel Ruthensteiner, Vienna YoHo – International Youth Hostel, Salzburg Hotel Der Salzburger Hof, Salzburg Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Salzburg Kolpinghaus Salzburg, Salzburg Alibi Hostel, Vienna Junges Hotel Zell am See, Zell Am See Jugendgaestehaus Linz

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Vienna Budget Travel Guide, Free Things to Do in Vienna, Austria in 2024

Last Updated on January 19, 2024 by gregor

If you’re planning on visiting Vienna on a budget, then check out our ultimate guide on How to save money in Vienna. We’ve got you covered.

Vienna is full of amazing history, architecture, and music and you will fall in love with the place at first sight. On the other hand, there are parts of the city where you will get a more modern feel. This is one of the many reasons why Vienna is one of the most visited countries in Europe, and due to that, the prices visiting Vienna keep getting higher each year.

Check out this Travel guide on how to master Vienna on a budget and save money.

Visiting Vienna on a Budget. Here are the Top Things to do to save Money when visiting Vienna 

Walk along the Ringstrasse

The best way to get started is by taking a walk along the Ringstrasse. This is a ring road that is placed outside the city center. While walking on the route you will see the Vienna State Opera House, Imperial Palace, City Hall, and the Parliament.

Free Guided Tour

There is a free guided tour of the City Hall every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. This starts at 1 pm and will help you get all the information you need to experience the place. If you visit during the Christmas season, you will be able to enjoy the traditional Christmas market and even a skating rink outside the Rathaus. Moreover, from July to August there is a free open-air cinema and many food and beverage stand, offering various cuisines.

Visit Vienna’s Public Parks

Moreover, it is completely free to visit some of the many gorgeous Public parks, such as the Stadtpark (CLICK for more) , and Burggaten.

Vienna – Beautiful flowers Guide (CLICK)

Vienna – Photography Guide (CLICK)

Vienna – Public Parks in the City Center (CLICK)

Visit Schönbrunn Palace Garden Park

The entrance to the Schönbrunn Palace garden is absolutely free. However, you will have to pay a few euros to get into the Gloriette terrace and the maze.

Vienna – Schönbrunn Palace public park (CLICK)

Head to the Donauinsel (Danube Island)

If you are in Vienna during the summer season and feel the need to cool off, then you can head to the Donauinsel.

The Danube island has a 42km Long Beach, that offers a range of cafes, bikes for hire, and even boat rides.

Liechtenstein Garden Palace Park

In the middle of Vienna, there is a stately garden palace, which is of outstanding interest to only a few tourists. The property with its extensive park can look back on a long history and houses one of the largest private collections in the world.  https://www.palaisliechtenstein.com/

PALAIS LIECHTENSTEIN GARDEN PALACE WALKING TOUR VIENNA, AUSTRIA

• https://www.palaisliechtenstein.com
• https://www.facebook.com/palaisliechtenstein/
• +43-1-319 57 67-0
• [email protected]

How to get there

• U-Bahn:  U4 Rossauer Lände
• Tramway:  D Bauernfeldplatz
• Bus:  40A Bauernfeldplatz

The Vienna Card

If you plan to visit some of the many historic city attractions, then the best way is to invest in a Vienna Card here online (CLICK) . That will allow you unlimited public transport, and even a special discount on 210 museums, shops, restaurants, and sights. These cards offer various ranges:

• For €17.00 you get a 24-hour Vienna Card.
• For €25.00 you get a 48-hour Vienna Card.
• For €29.00 you get a 72-hour Vienna Card.

You can purchase the Vienna Card here online (CLICK)   or from the Tourist information center.

Galleries and Museums on a Budget

When it comes to galleries and museums, Vienna has a spectacular collection that will blow your mind away. For €17 you get a pass, and the cost will keep adding up as you visit more places. The best way to save money is by taking advantage of the Vienna Card (CLICK) , where you can enjoy a 5% to 50% discount on various places. Furthermore, you can buy joint tickets for a number of museums, which will help you cut down on the full entry price. There are a number of deals you can pick from, allowing you to visit the places you would wish to see and save money at the same time.

The best part is that many of the museums in Vienna have discontinued their entry tickets on various days, or timings. For instance, the Wien Museum is free for anyone who is under 19 years old and free for all every first Sunday of the month. Moreover, there is an Evening Art program, where some of the museums stay open later than usual on some days. This is when they offer a discount entry price. Additionally, the Museum of Applied Arts offers free entry every Tuesday from 6 pm to 10 pm, and the Museum of /modernist art offers a reduced price on Thursday from 6 pm to 9 pm (This includes a tour). The house of Music also offers half price on a daily basis from 8 pm to 9:30 pm.

Best 12 museums in Vienna (CLICK)

Best City Views

One of the best views you can enjoy in Vienna is from the South Tower of St Stephen’s Cathedral. It is 137 meters high and offers a great view of the beautiful city.

The entry is completely free, but you will have to climb 343 stairs to get to the top. There you will be required to pay €5 for adults. Day and night, you can have a cocktail or an excellent meal at the Sky Bar Restaurant, while enjoying the view over the Cathedral.

If you go towards the northern side of the Danube, you will find the Danube tower, which is the tallest structure in Austria. It measures about 252 meters, and there is a spectacular revolving restaurant on the top. Furthermore, some of the best views of Vienna are from the hills surrounding the city. There are a number of places that can be reached by a short bus ride which makes for a great way to spend the day.

Book your tickets here:   Secrets of the St. Stephan’s Cathedral

Entertainment in Vienna on a Budget

Vienna is the city of Music, and the tickets to the leading opera houses are not only sold months in advance, but they will cost you a great deal. However, you can score a bargain offer if you don’t mind standing during the entire performance. These standing tickers go on sale 80 minutes before the performance, and the price varies based on the location. If you get to the State Opera House early enough, you will be able to get the best possible deal. Keep in mind that one person can only buy one ticket, so you will all need to stand in line. However, you also score standing tickets for Burgtheater, and Volkstheater online.

Spanish Riding School – Performance of the Lipizzans

The Spanish riding school is another pricey attraction, where main seats cost from €50 to €217 per person. However, you can get standing room tickets from €25–€37 which can be booked in advance.  Furthermore, you can watch these mesmerizing horses during their morning performance routine from 10am–12pm €15. During the summer season, there is a Piper Meets Vienna show that features young horses that offer performance, which costs about €12–€45.

Book your ticket here : Performance Of The Lipizzans At Spanish Riding School

*) Be impressed by the performance of the famous Lipizzaner in a breathtaking location, the baroque Winter Riding School. The unique atmosphere of this place and the accompanying classic Viennese music will make this experience unforgettable.

Dining and Drinking

Restaurants and cafes that are located in the center of the city are mostly expensive. So if you are looking to save some cash, then have your main meal during lunch hours. As most restaurants offer cheaper main courses, ordeals of two to three-course meals under €10. Another way to save money on dining and drinking is by visiting student hotspots, where you will always find attractive deals. If you wish to eat at your apartment, or outside, then you can head to the Naschmarkt which offers more than 120 stalls selling food and drinks. (Open on Monday–Friday from 6am–7.30pm and Saturday from 6am–5pm).

However, it would be a shame to leave Vienna without visiting one of the traditional cafes, that offer coffee and Sacher torte. Try to stay away from well-known cafes, as they can be expensive. If you want to get the most out of your trip, then get a table at one of the free music performance cafes. Such as the Schwarzenberg on Thursday and Friday from 7:30 am to 11 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 5 pm to 8:30 pm. The Cafe Weimar offers live music from Monday to Saturday till 7:30 am, and on Sunday afternoon. Lastly, the 1950s Cafe Prückel offers live music on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7 pm to 10 pm.

Vienna Ultimate 10 Viennese food to taste (CLICK)

Best Coffeehouses in the City Center of Vienna (CLICK)

Getting Around in Vienna

When you land you can get a discount City Airport Train (CAT), or the Airport Lines bus using a Vienna Card here online (CLICK) . However, the cheapest way to get into town is on the S-Bahn Train. It will cost you €4.40 and take about 25 minutes from the airport to the Wien Mitte Station. Here you will find underground connections all around town, so you can get to your hotel/apartment/hostel/etc.. On the other hand, when you are traveling within Vienna, you can use the Vienna Card to get unlimited rides on the trams, underground, and buses. Another option is a travel pass, that last for a specific period, and the cost varies with time.

There are a number of companies that offer cheap boat trips on the Danube coast, so if you are traveling to another city nearby; you can easily catch a cruise. There are many offers based on the city you wish to travel to, so pick your pass carefully.

What to see in Vienna in ONE Day? 1 Day Itinerary

Please have a look at my blog post with all the detailed information

ONE DAY IN VIENNA I THE PERFECT 1 DAY ITINERARY

What to See in Vienna? Top Lists

TheViennaBlog has thoroughly studied all the attractions but also hidden secrets to uncover in Vienna. (Click the Links below to get to the information)

Here is the  Vienna Ultimate Top 50 Bucket List

Here is the  Best of Vienna in 4 hours

Here is the  Best of Vienna in 4 hours (Summer Edition)

Here are the  Best 5 things to do in Vienna the most liveable city in the world

Here are the  Vienna Old Streets in Historic Center

Here is the  Spittelberg Village in Vienna

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links

Best Vegan Restaurants and Food in Vienna, 2024

The best 12 museums you need to visit in vienna, austria travel guide (update 2024).

The Restless Worker

Work | Travel | Blog | Repeat

Austria budget for a 10 day trip

Over Christmas my family and I ventured around Austria for just over a week. It truly was one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. Sure, the winter season isn’t always a popular time for travelling to a new city but if you pick the country wisely, it could actually be the best time to visit.

The best thing about Austria is that you can combine outdoor adventures with city ones. It’s the perfect blend of activities for a larger group.

Before doing my research on Austria I assumed that it would be expensive to travel around. You know what they say about assumptions though. After digging a little further I realized it was quite reasonable. Keep in mind however that some of these prices are inflated because we were travelling over New Year’s which can always be a very expensive time to travel anywhere.

We tried our best to keep the costs down as much as possible but because we were travelling with my parents we weren’t staying in hostels either. During our trip we also ate in restaurants.

Flights | $1100 CAD / $885 USD

This is likely where your price will vary from mine. These flights were also more expensive than what you could usually find because we traveled over Christmas and wanted direct flights. After searching for what seemed like ever, the cheapest direct flight we could find was into Munich.

Because of this we technically started our trip 2 days prior in Munich. It actually ended up being a great way for everyone to overcome their jetlag before the real adventure began.

If you’re looking to cut down costs on your Austria budget I would recommend choosing a flight with a stopover or two. As with any trip, be flexible with the flight times. It may be much more of a pain in the ass getting there but your wallet will thank you.

Transportation | $212 CAD / $169 USD

We really wanted to see as much of Austria as we possibly could have during our trip. I’ll admit that the train systems in Austria were far superior to what I was expecting. We never had a delayed or late train in all of the various trains we took and they were very reasonably priced. This really helped to keep our Austria budget down.

From my research, the only train systems you can use within the country are OBB trains . We managed to book all of our tickets online in advance which definitely helped us to save money, especially since we were travelling during the Christmas break.

The OBB trains give you an option of either printing your tickets at home and bringing them to the station or printing your tickets at the station. In all honesty, I preferred printing them at the station, that way I knew I wasn’t going to lose them.

I would also highly recommend booking a seat. It’ll cost you a little extra but when you’re traveling in a group and with a lot of luggage, it can get quite stressful. At least twice we had to kick people out of our booked seats which meant they were left struggling to find a seat even after the train left the station. It will only cost you about $8 per person and seriously, it’s worth it.

Here are all of the trains we took for the cost:

Munich > Innsbruck Innsbruck > Kitzbuhel > Innsbruck (day trip) Innsbruck > Salzburg Salzburg > Vienna

Accommodations | $1070 CAD / $860 USD

This is another place where you could save money on your overall Austria budget. Accommodations are obviously everyone’s personal preference. While some prefer to stay in 5* hotels, others can rough it in hostels. For the sake of this budget, we typically stayed in 4* hotels that were centrally located and close to everything.

Innsbruck hotel | Hotel Salier 

This hotel was very much a pleasant surprise. Nestled in the little town of Innsbruck, it’s walking distance from the main streets and very close to the train station. The coolest part of the place was their glass elevator. You could admire the mountains as you travelled up from the main lobby to your room. It was stunning. It’s also worth noting that the hotel restaurant was particularly great. The wine selection is a highlight as well.

Salzburg hotel | NH Salzburg City 

This was another hotel that really surprised me actually. I poured over our reviews before landing in Salzburg because we were staying in the city the longest and I wanted to make sure we had a comfortable stay. The hotel was far enough away from the centre that the price was really reasonable but also right around the corner from some amazing shops and restaurants. The walk to the old city took less than 15 minutes.

Vienna hotel | Ruby Sofie Hotel 

If you’re looking to stay somewhere with style than the Ruby hotels is where it’s at. I couldn’t believe this place when I walked inside. The decor and furniture was completel modern. The main colour of the hotel was black but it still felt inviting. There were amazing little surprised throughout the hotel as well like; a yoga terrace, tea stations and a shower in the actual room! I also can’t rave enough about the breakfast, truly divine. There are a few Ruby hotels in the city, I believe the Ruby Marie is the closest in the city.

Entertainment | $500 CAD / $400 USD

This budget might seem a little low but it’s because we mostly walked around and ate at restaurants. There were a few museums and touristy things we did that you absolutely can’t miss.

One that comes top of mind is the Salzburg fortress. While the history lessons you’ll learn on the audio tour are great, nothing can compare to those views. At the very least, pay for the tram ticket to the top of the fortress, it’s worth it. I would highly recommend the Original Sound of Music tour as well. Honestly, the tour was incredible . Even those who haven’t seen the movie or don’t love it, will certainly fall in love with the cool history.

The bulk of our entertainment budget was eaten up by our ski day at Kitzbuhel . This was very high on mine, and my father’s bucket list so it was worth every single penny we spent. For those of you who aren’t familiar, Kitzbuhel is the deadliest race on the Alpine ski circuit. It’s world renowned and I grew up watching the races with my dad. Being on the same hill and standing at the same start gate as so many other famous racers.

Food | $1000 CAD / $800 USD

In all honesty, this is a rough estimate and possibly more than what we actually spent. It was hard to keep track after a while but we didn’t splash out by any means. It also helped that breakfast was included with all of our hotel stays ( this is why I love Europe). 

With breakfast paid for, lunch was typically a little lighter, except on days where we had done a lot of walking. Also, keep in mind that alcohol is very much a part of this Austria budget. I mean really you can’t visit Bavaria and not enjoy a few, or more, beers.

If you’re travelling to Austria you absolutely cannot leave the country without trying an Apple Strudel. I’ve had Strudel before but honestly never anything like this. Melted in your mouth.

And the running total is ……….

Total: $3882 CAD / $3115 USD

* Please note this post contains affiliate links meaning we make a small commission if you purchase something through the links provided. It will not cost you extra.

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Great run down on pricing. Is this Talley for two people?

Thanks Tammy – the total price is actually per person but some of those costs go down having more people with you (like accommodations). Hope you get to travel soon!

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The Ultimate Austria Travel Guide 2024: Unleash The Explorer

• Culture and History

Table of Contents

Austria travel guide: alps, history, cuisine & more….

This comprehensive AUSTRIA travel guide unlocks a treasure trove of hidden gems, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture, tailor-made for your perfect adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned wanderer or a starry-eyed first-timer, prepare to be enchanted by the charm of this captivating land.

AUSTRIA Travel Guide :

Vienna: waltz into imperial grandeur.

Let’s waltz straight to the heart of Austria – Vienna. Soak in the imperial grandeur of Hofburg Palace, where Habsburg dreams danced amongst glittering chandeliers. Climb the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a symphony of spires and stained glass, or get lost in the artistic labyrinth of Schönbrunn Palace gardens. For music lovers, Vienna is a serenade. Catch a classical concert at the magnificent Musikverein or lose yourself in the magic of an opera at the Staatsoper. But Vienna is more than just gilded history. Sample gourmet pastries in charming cafes, explore vibrant street markets and discover contemporary art in MuseumsQuartier.

Salzburg: Mozart’s Melodies and Alpine Majesty

Next, Salzburg beckons with its melodic charm. Follow in the footsteps of Mozart, exploring his childhood home or catching a performance at the iconic Salzburg Festival. Climb the ramparts of Festung Hohensalzburg, a sentinel gazing over the city’s terracotta rooftops. Then, let the panorama of the Austrian Alps steal your breath away from atop the Mönchsberg hill. Beyond the city, the rolling hills of the Salzkammergut region beckon. Hike through emerald meadows, sail on serene lakes, and discover fairytale villages like Hallstatt, nestled amidst dramatic mountain peaks.

Innsbruck: Winter Wonderland & Beyond

For the adventurous soul, Innsbruck, nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, is a winter wonderland come alive. Shred the slopes of legendary ski resorts, carve fresh tracks in the pristine powder, or simply sip hot cocoa and watch snowflakes dance. But Innsbruck is more than just a winter paradise. Climb the Hungerburg Funicular for breathtaking city views, explore the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), or marvel at the Imperial Palace. In summer, hike through lush valleys, conquer rugged mountain trails, or cycle along the Danube River, a sparkling emerald ribbon weaving through the heart of Austria.

Graz: Where History & Hipster Vibes Collide

Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is a delightful surprise. Its historic heart, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts the majestic Graz Cathedral and the iconic Clock Tower. But Graz is also a pulsating city with a vibrant art scene. Explore contemporary galleries in Kunsthaus Graz, a futuristic landmark, or catch a performance at the Schauspielhaus Graz, a modern architectural marvel. Sample the city’s unique culinary blend of Austrian, Italian, and Balkan influences, and soak in the hipster vibes in charming cafes and independent shops.

Beyond the Big Cities: Unforgettable Experiences Await

Austria’s treasures spill far beyond its urban jewels. Delve into the fairytale world of Melk Abbey, a Baroque masterpiece perched on a rocky outcrop. Unwind in the thermal baths of Bad Ischl, where emperors once sought rejuvenation. Embark on a scenic train journey through the Hohe Tauern National Park, marveling at glacial valleys and soaring peaks. In Hallstatt, delve into the mysterious depths of the Salzbergwerk salt mines, or cruise across the glassy surface of Lake Gosau, surrounded by emerald hills.

A Symphony of Flavors: Indulge in Austrian Delights

No Austrian adventure is complete without a culinary symphony. Start your day with a flaky Wiener Schnitzel and a frothy cappuccino. Savor hearty stews like goulash, accompanied by warm dumplings and tangy sauerkraut. In the afternoons, indulge in sweet strudels and creamy Sachertorte, a Viennese chocolate masterpiece. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of locally produced Grüner Veltliner, a crisp white wine that perfectly captures the essence of Austria.

Planning Your Austrian Adventure:

From snow-capped peaks to bustling cities, Austria offers an itinerary for every traveler. Whether you crave outdoor adventures, historical explorations, or cultural immersion, this guide provides a starting point. Research visa requirements, explore transportation options, and consider travel seasons to craft your perfect Austrian journey. World Trip Deal, your travel partner, can help you navigate through the logistics and unlock the magic of Austria with tailor-made packages and expert advice.

So, pack your bags, ignite your wanderlust spirit, and let this AUSTRIA travel guide be your compass on a journey beyond compare. Unforgettable experiences await in the heart of Europe – dive into the Austrian adventure today!

Q & A :

• A:  Absolutely! Austria consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world. While basic precautions are always recommended, solo travelers can explore Austria with confidence and enjoy the friendly hospitality.
• A:  German is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic German phrases will go a long way, but you’ll find many locals happy to communicate in English.
• A:  Yes! You can access the guide online or download it as a PDF for offline browsing, ensuring you have all the essential information handy during your adventures.
• A:  Austria boasts a well-connected railway system, making train travel a scenic and efficient option. Buses reach smaller towns and rural areas, while car rentals offer flexibility for exploring hidden gems. Public transportation passes offer significant savings for exploring multiple cities.
• A:  Of course! The guide suggests visiting during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for lower prices, opting for charming guesthouses or hostels over luxury hotels, and sampling local markets and street food instead of fancy restaurants. Consider museum or city passes for discounts on attractions.
• A:  The AUSTRIA Travel Guide recommends attending traditional festivals like Fasching (carnival) or Krampuslauf, visiting local markets to interact with artisans and farmers, and joining cooking classes or food tours to learn about Austrian cuisine. Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with locals – their warm hospitality is part of the Austrian charm!
• A:  Explore the quirky shops and cafes of Spittelberg district, discover contemporary art at the Kunsthalle Wien museum, or relax in the Volksgarten, a charming public park. Vienna offers hidden treasures beyond the main sights!
• A:  Absolutely! Take a boat trip on Lake Wolfgang, visit the Salzburg Zoo with its diverse animal inhabitants, or explore the enchanting Hellbrunn Palace gardens with its water features and trick fountains. Salzburg offers plenty of fun for all ages!
• A:  Innsbruck thrives year-round! During summer, hike or bike through the scenic trails of the Nordkette mountains, explore the Imperial Palace and Hofkirche church, or take the Hungerburg Funicular for breathtaking city views. There’s much more to Innsbruck than just snow!
• Activities:
• A: Beyond skiing, the guide suggests hot air balloon rides over vineyards, Danube River bike tours, and horseback riding through countryside vistas, offering truly memorable experiences.
• A: The guide recommends visiting during shoulder seasons, utilizing public transportation, and indulging in local cuisine instead of fancy restaurants. You’ll find budget-friendly accommodation options throughout the guide.
• A: The guide provides a general overview of visa requirements. For specific details, the guide suggests checking with your nearest Austrian embassy or consulate based on your citizenship.

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7-day Austria Itinerary Under S$1.4k — Winter in Vienna, Hallstatt, Innsbruck, Salzburg

Austria is beautiful all year round, but there’s just a bit more to love during winter.

If Austria had a LinkedIn profile, it’d sound something like this: birthplace of Mozart, Swarovski, and Red Bull, two-time host of the Winter Olympics, home to one of Europe’s longest-reigning and most influential dynasties.

A bit of an overachiever eh?

Austria’s resume is impressive all year round, but it’s even more so during winter. The country turns into a mega winter wonderland — Christmas markets and ski resorts are in full swing, alpine villages are extra magical with layers of snow!

It’s also one of Europe’s top destinations for winter sports — ski passes are more affordable compared to Switzerland , and France .

Here’s how to make the most of a week-long winter vacation with this Austria itinerary!

Austria Itinerary Budget Breakdown

Accommodation:  S$306 Transport:  S$236.57 (excl. flights) Activities:  S$367.97 Food:  S$394.99 Misc:  S$21.46 Total:  S$1,322.15

Detailed breakdown for one pax here . Flights are not included as the prices fluctuate.

Overview of Austria Itinerary

Day 1-2: Innsbruck Day 3-4: Salzburg Day 5: Hallstatt Day 6-7: Vienna

Link to Google maps with pinned attractions here .

Flying into Austria from Singapore

This Austria itinerary starts off in Innsbruck — Innsbruck Airport is small and there currently aren’t any direct flights from Singapore. Here’s how to get to Innsbruck:

Option A: Fly direct to Munich, then take a 1hr 44min train ride from München Hbf to Innsbruck Hbf ( from €12.90 , ~S$18.20)

Option B: Fly direct to Frankfurt first, then it’s a 1hr 10min flight from Frankfurt to Innsbruck (from S$159)

Day 1-2: Innsbruck

Innsbruck — the first stop on this Austria itinerary is a historic city with an adventurous side. It’s surrounded by snowcapped mountains and numerous ski resorts, some you can reach in just 20 minutes.

Getting from Innsbruck Airport to Innsbruck Old Town: 20-minute bus ride on Bus F

Getting around Innsbruck: The Innsbruck Card (€53 for 24 hours, €63 for 48 hours) includes unlimited use of public transport, free city bike rental (worth €12), plus one-time free admission to all city tourist attractions .

Innsbruck Old Town

Mariahilferstraße Street

Fun fact: Inn is the name of the river which runs through the town, and Innsbruck means “Bridge over the Inn”!

*Pro-tip: For the best postcard view of Innsbruck, head to the river Inn where you’ll find the colourful houses along Mariahilferstraße Street

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: Mariahilfstraße, 6020 Innsbruck

Golden Roof

A must-see in Innsbruck’s Old Town is the Golden Roof, which got the name from its 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles. The bay was built over 500 years ago by Maximilian I for his wedding as a symbol of power.

Photo credit: @walter_vi1 via Instagram

The building is now a museum that gives insight into the town’s rich history — a time of guilds and aristocrats!

Entrance fee: €4.80 — free with Innsbruck Card Opening hours: 10AM – 5PM Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 15, 6020 Innsbruck

Court Church

Not to be confused with Harry Potter’s Wizard Chess , the 28 life-sized bronze figures in the Court Church are the relatives and heroes of Emperor Maximilian I.

But, spoiler alert, the tomb is actually empty. Maximilian had planned his resting place in another church Wiener Neustadt, but the foundations couldn’t support the weight of the bronze statues — therefore they were moved to the Court Church in Innsbruck.

Entrance fee: €5.10 — free with Innsbruck Card Opening hours: 9AM – 5PM (Mon – Sat), 12:30AM – 5PM (Sun and PH) Address: Universitätsstraße 2, 6020 Innsbruck

Nordkette Ski Resort 

Innsbruck is a paradise for winter sports, with 13 ski resorts in the area — totalling 111 lifts and cable cars. One of them, the Nordkette Ski Park , is easily accessible via a 15-minute funicular ride from the old town!

Grab a deck chair (free to use) and soak in the view from the Nordkette mountain range .

Booking ski gear online in advance can be cheaper! It costs €35/day for snowboard or ski gear and €35/day for a full set of ski clothes (jacket, pants and shoes).

*Pro-tip: Get the Ski Plus City Pass (from €117 for a two-day pass) if you’re planning to extend this Austria itinerary and experience other ski resorts. It includes entry to all 13 ski resorts, plus 22 city attractions and selected public transport !

Cost: €33 for the ski day pass , €42 for round trip cable car — cable car included in Innsbruck Card Opening hours: 8:30AM – 5:30PM Address: Rennweg 3, A-6020 Innsbruck (Cable car base station)

Lunch at Seegrube

Refuel with traditional Tyrolean dishes at restaurant Seegrube . It’s located right beside the funicular so you’ve got stunning views of Nordkette Ski Resort!

We tried Tiroler Bauerngröstl (roast meat with potatoes and coleslaw) and Duett von Zander and Garnele (shrimps and veggies) — both were really good.

Cost: Mains start from €12.40 Opening hours: 9AM – 5PM Address: Bergstation Seegrube, 6020 Innsbruck

Swarovski Crystal World

Swarovski was founded in Austria in 1885 and celebrated its centennial anniversary in 1995 with the opening of Swarovski Crystal Worlds .

The centrepiece of the park is The Giant by artist André Heller. He created the story of a giant who gathered knowledge around the world, before settling down in Tyrol to watch over Swarovski’s Chambers of Wonders!

There are 18 Chambers of Wonder , featuring unique interpretations of Swarovski crystals by famous artists, designers and architects like Yayoi Kusama, Lee Bul and Tord Boontje.

Our favourite is The Art of Performance, where there are Swarovski performance outfits for artists on display, like Michael Jackson’s glove and Marilyn Monroe’s dress!

Entrance fee: €19 — free with Innsbruck Card Opening hours: 9AM – 7PM, Last entry at 6PM How to get there: Take the shuttle bus (€9.50 for a round trip — Free with Innsbruck Card) from Innsbruck Old Town, opposite the Congress building. Check the timetable here .

Accommodation in Innsbruck (two nights): Montagu Hostel ( from S$61/night for a bed) or Nala Hotel ( from S$157/night for a standard double room).

*Pro-tip: Book a minimum two-night hotel stay in Innsbruck and receive a free Welcome Card ! This includes the use of public transport, ski buses plus free guided winter hikes and snowshoe tours.

Day 3-4: Salzburg

Known for Mozart, Red Bull and The Sound of Music, Salzburg is a city bursting with culture. This Austria itinerary includes visits to Mozart’s birth place, The Sound of Music filming locations and other highlights!

Getting from Innsbruck to Salzburg: 1h45m train from Innsbruck Hbf station to Salzburg Hbf station ( from €24.90 ) — book in advance for cheaper tickerts.

Getting around Salzburg: You can walk to most places in Salzburg but the Salzburg Card ( €27 for 24 hours ) is worth getting as it includes one-time free admission to all city tourist attractions, on top of unlimited use of public transportation.

Red Bull was founded in Austria, and the famous Red Bull Hangar-7 is just a four-minute drive from Salzburg Airport! Here you’ll find a collection of aircrafts and Formula 1 race cars on display — free for the public to visit!

There’s also a couple of dining options, like the Michelin star Restaurant Ikarus which features a guest chef concept, and the Carpe Diem Lounge which specialises in breakfast.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 9AM – 10PM How to get there: Take O-Bus 10 to Salzburg Pressezentrum/Kuglhof, walk 5min

Salzburg Old Town

Getreidegasse Shopping Street

A unique feature here is the ornamental guild signs protruding from the buildings!

Walk along Getreidegasse , the town’s main shopping street. The old houses are displays of the town’s history — important dates and the names of former owners are often found inscribed on the front.

This lane is also the childhood home of Salzburg’s most famous resident, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart . He was born in 1756 in house number nine (the yellow building pictured)!

The Mozart family lived here till Mozart was 17, before moving to a larger house in the same town. House number nine has since been converted to a museum paying tribute to the classical genius — with original furniture, portraits, and instruments on display.

Mozart Museum Entrance fee: €12 — Free with Salzburg Card Opening hours: 9AM – 5:30PM, Last entry at 5PM   Address:  Getreidegasse 9 A-5020 Salzburg

Cafe Konditorei Fürst

A chocolate named after Mozart, the original Salzburger Mozartkugel (€16 for 10 pieces) at Cafe Konditorei Fürst is made with a marzipan and pistachio core dipped in nougat!

This famous treat can be found all over Austria but only those sold at the original shop in Salzburg Old Town are wrapped in silver foil with a blue Mozart portrait — the rest are wrapped in gold and red (but equally delicious!).

Opening hours: 9AM – 7PM (Sun – Fri), 8AM – 7PM (Sat) Address: Brodgasse 135020 Salzburg

Salzburg Cathedral

The Salzburg Cathedral was first built in 767, but destroyed by fires and rebuilt several times over the years.

One of the city’s most important religious buildings, the baptismal font inside is where Mozart and his sister were baptised!

Entrance fee: €5 Opening hours: Generally 8AM – 5PM (Mon – Sat), 1PM – 5PM (Sun and PH) Address: Domplatz 1a, 5020 Salzburg

Mirabell Palace and Gardens

If you’ve watched the award-winning musical film “ The Sound of Music “, this place might look familiar. The Mirabell Palace and Gardens was built in 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich for his mistress.

The Sound of Music was based on the real-life von Trapp family who lived in Salzburg before World War II! The spot shown above is where Julie Andrews performed the song “ Do Re Mi ” in the movie.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 8AM – 6PM (Mirabell Palace), 6AM – dusk (Mirabell Gardens) Address: Schloss Mirabell, Mirabellgarten, Mirabellplatz 4, 5020 Salzburg

Hohensalzburg Fortress

The biggest fully preserved castle in Central Europe is the Hohensalzburg Fortress in Salzburg. Built in 1077, it’s located on top of Festungsberg hill — with unobstructed views of Salzburg old town.

Hohensalzburg Fortress can be reached on foot, but it takes just a minute via funicular which runs every 10 minutes.

The view of Salzburg Old Town from Hohensalzburg Fortress.

The fortress houses several museums like the Marionette Museum and the Fortress Museum .

Entrance fee: From €13.30 incl. funicular round trip — Free with Salzburg Card Opening hours: 9:30AM – 5PM (Jan – Apr), 9AM – 8PM (May – Sep), 9:30AM – 5PM (Oct – Dec) Address: Festungsgasse 4, 5020 Salzburg

Traditional Austrian Cuisine at Sternbräu 

Sternbräu is a popular restaurant serving local dishes since 1429. For starters, we ordered a smoked trout filet salad (€11.20) and pumpkin cream soup (€4.80).

The starters were tasty, but the mains were the real deal — huge portions of hearty Austrian food. I had roast pork with bread dumplings and cabbage salad (€13.90) while Hendric had braised oxtail with potatoes (€18.80).

For dessert, we had Salzburger Nockerl (egg souffle with raspberry sauce) — a local specialty. It’s light, fluffy, and makes a great dish for sharing.

Cost: From €13.60 for a main  Opening hours: 9AM – 10PM Address: Griesgasse 23, 5020 Salzburg

Accommodation in Salzburg (two nights):  YoHo International Youth Hostel ( from S$41/night for a bed) or K6 Rooms by Der Salzburger Hof ( from S$260/night for a medium room).

Day 5: Hallstatt 

Next on our Austria itinerary, the iconic village of Hallstatt — home to the world’s oldest salt mine! It’s typically covered as a day trip from Salzburg as it’s just a 2.5hr train ride or 1hr drive away.

Getting from Salzburg to Hallstatt: ~2.5hrs via train ( from €9.90 one way ), includes a transfer at Attnang-Puchheim station. The train stops across the lake from Hallstatt Old Town, so a 10-minute ferry ride ( €3 one way ) is needed to reach Hallstatt. Alternatively, you could take the bus but requires three transfers.

To maximise your time, aim to leave Salzburg before 8:30AM. The fares and journey duration varies slightly depending on the timing and how early you book in advance. Check the OBB website for exact timings and prices.

Luggage storage in Hallstatt: There’s a luggage storage facility ( €5/day ) at the Tourist Information Centre in the old town.

Salzwelten Hallstatt Salt Mine

The Salzwelten Hallstatt is the world’s oldest salt mine — over 7000 years old! The salt mine is closely linked with the town’s history and the tour is both educational and scenic.

To get to Salzwelten Hallstatt, take a three-minute funicular ride from the old town.

Before starting on the guided tour, walk along Hallstatt Skywalk — located right at the top station!

Hallstatt Skywalk .

This 350-metre high viewing platform offers panoramic views of Hallstatt Old Town and Hallstätter See, the alpine lake that connects Hallstatt and the village of Obertraun.

The 1.5hr mine tour isn’t just a walk through dark caves. Some exciting elements here include the hologram displays, two wooden slides (one of which is 64m long!) and even a miners train ride.

The tunnels are wide enough and temperatures remain at roughly 8°C year round, so it doesn’t feel stuffy despite being several metres below ground.

Cost: €36 for a 1.5hr salt mine tour and funicular round trip Opening hours:  Varies depending on season How to get there: Salzwelten Hallstatt funicular station is an 11min walk from the ferry station/old town

Hallstatt Old Town

Hallstatt is a small village of just around 750 residents, but millions of visitors flock here each year for this iconic postcard view. The old houses and church set against the alpine landscapes were truly breathtaking — definitely worth the day trip here!

The old town isn’t huge, and a few hours is more than enough time to cover everything. Check out the Ascension of Our Lady Church and Market Square!

Hallstatt is the capital of the Dachstein Salzkammergut region which consists of four villages — Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, Gosau and Obertraun. If you’re planning to stay overnight, take the chance to add Dachstein Giant Ice Cave and 5 Fingers Lookout Point to your Austria itinerary as well!

Getting to Vienna from Hallstatt: ~3.5hr train ride from Hallstatt Hbf station to Vienna Hbf station (from €19.90) — transfer at Attnang-Puchheim Bahnhof

Day 6-7: Vienna

A vibrant blend of the old and new, no Austria itinerary is complete without a trip to its stunning capital, Vienna . Explore important historical landmarks, learn traditional Viennese recipes from a local chef and visit an amusement park dating back to the 1800s!

Getting around Vienna: The Vienna City Card (€17 for 24 hours, €25 for 48 hours) includes free travel on public transport in Vienna and discounts on city attractions.

Vienna City Centre

Hofburg Imperial Palace

The Hofburg Imperial Palace is one of Vienna’s most important landmarks — it’s where the Habsburgs ruled Austria for over seven centuries! This palace complex is massive, with 18 wings, 19 courtyards and over 2,600 rooms!

Today, the palace is home to the office of the Federal President, the Spanish Riding School , the Sisi Museum , Imperial Apartments and the Imperial Treasury .

The balcony at the Neue Burg wing of the palace is where Hitler announced the annexation of Austria in 1938, in a tragic event known as the Anschluss .

Entrance fee: Free to walk through the palace, separate entrance fees for museums Opening hours: 8AM – 6PM How to get there: Take train line U3 to Herrengasse station, walk 6min

Kärntner Strasse, Graben and Kohlmarkt Shopping Street

Kärntner Strasse is Vienna’s version of Orchard Road, stretching from the State Opera House to St. Stephens. Here you’ll find both local and international brands like Swarovski and H&M, plus landmarks like the Vienna State Opera!

Graben (from. St. Stephan’s Cathedral up to Kohlmarkt) is home to more international luxury brands like Cartier and Louis Vuitton, with many flagship stores at the Golden Quarter.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: Most shops operate from 10AM – 8PM How to get there: 6min walk from Stephansplatz station

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

One of the best things to do in Vienna is visiting the St. Stephen’s Cathedral. This Gothic structure dates back to the 12th century, with colourful roof tiles of Vienna’s coat of arms adorning its sides. For panoramic views of the city, climb up the South Tower ‘s 343 steps to the ‘Türmerstube’ lookout!

Visitors can also opt for a guided tour through the catacombs underneath the cathedral, where the tombs of bishops and royals are kept.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 6AM – 10PM (Mon – Sat), 7AM – 10PM (Sun) Address: Take subway train U1 or U3, or bus 1A or 3A to Stephansplatz station, walk 2min

Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum)

In a city as culturally vibrant as Vienna, it’d be rude not to visit one of the many museums . The Kunsthistorisches Museum , or Art History Museum houses a massive collection of the Habsburg imperial family — which ranges from European to Egyptian works.

Other museums within walking distance include the Museum of Natural History and the MuseumsQuartier — the former Imperial stables which now houses art museums and restaurants including the Leopold Museum !

Entrance fee: €18 — 6% off with Vienna City Card Opening hours: 10AM – 6PM (Tue – Sun), 10AM – 9PM (Thu) How to get there: 6min walk from Volkstheater station

Vienna Naschmarkt

Photo credit: Vienna Tourism

Markets are some of the best places to immerse in local life and the Vienna Naschmarkt is Vienna’s most famous one. This market is nicknamed “the belly of Vienna” — home to 120 stalls and restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world!

Come on a Saturday for the weekly flea market, where you’ll find all sorts of secondhand items.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 6AM – 9PM (Mon – Fri), 6AM – 6PM (Sat), Closed on Sun Address: Take the subway train U1 or U2 to Station Karlsplatz, walk 7min or take the U4 to Station Kettenbrückengasse

Vienna Prater

Photo credit: Niklas Schnaubelt

Vienna isn’t just museums and churches — there’s plenty of thrill too! The Vienna Prater was once a private hunting ground for the royal family. It’s now a public amusement park home to dozens of rides and attractions , like the 125-year-old Ferris Wheel and a 5D Cinema .

Photo credit: Prater Wien

Those visiting Vienna during winter can also look forward to the Winter Market (from 19 Nov 2022 to 8 Jan 2023 this year) which features a circus and free live concerts! Do note that some rides close during winter — check the website before going to see which ones are operating.

Entrance fee: Free, separate fees for individual rides Opening hours: 11AM – 12AM, ride operating hours might differ How to get there: Take tram line 0 or 5, or subway train U1 or U2 to Praterstern station then walk 3min

Viennese Cooking Class 

Learn all about Viennese cuisine by cooking with a local chef! Andante teaches guests how to prepare a full Viennese meal — a starter (depending on season), schnitzel with potato salad, and apple strudel.

I consider myself a kitchen idiot, but Chef Nabiel was extremely patient. This class ended up being a highlight of my time in Vienna! On top of learning traditional recipes, you’ll get to hear about the city’s food culture.

The class takes roughly 3.5hrs — with the last hour for students to enjoy the food together. Beverages like Austrian wine, non-alcoholic drinks, and coffee are included.

Cost: €85 /pax Timing: 6:30PM – 9:30PM Address: Hetzgasse 39, 1030 Vienna

Schönbrunn Palace

A visit to Schönbrunn Palace is like walking through an open textbook of Austria’s history. It was used as the hunting grounds and summer residence of the Habsburg family , who ruled Austria from the 15th to 20th century, and has an impressive 1440 rooms!

You’ll learn about famous royals like Maria Theresa (the only female ruler in the Habsburg dynasty!) as well as Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth , lovingly known as Sisi to locals. 

Photo credit: @anikinearthwalker via Unsplash

There’s also a large garden behind the palace that’s free to visit. Head up to the Gloriette Arch for the best views of Schönbrunn Palace!

Entrance fee: €22 for the Imperial Tour (22 rooms), €26 for the Grand Tour (40 rooms). Audio guide included in both — 7% off with Vienna City Card Opening hours:  9:30AM – 5AM (Palace), 6:30AM – 5:30PM (Gardens) How to get there:  Take the U4 train to Schönbrun station, walk 7min

Café Sacher

Sacher-Torte can be found in many of Vienna’s coffeehouses , but Hotel Sacher is where it originated from!

When in Vienna, you’ve got to have the Sacher-Torte and coffee at Sacher Eck Cafe . This rich chocolate cake with apricot jam and whipped cream dates back to 1832 and is now a household name in Austria.

The Sacher Sweet Treat meal includes a slice of Original Sacher-Torte, a hot beverage and water for €19, or €28 for an additional glass of champagne.

Cost: From €13 for a coffee and cake Opening hours: 8AM – 9PM How to get there: Take bus 2A to Kärntner Straße station, cross the road. Alternatively, take the U1 or U4 or trams 1, 2, D or 71 to Karlsplatz/Oper and walk for 5min

Viennese Sausages at Bitzinger Würstelstand

Grabbing a bite at a Würstelstand (sausage stand) is a must. Würstelstand s are found all over the city, but Bitzinger Würstelstand (located right beside the Vienna State Opera) is the most well-known.

Their signature sausage is the Käsekrainer (€5.50), served with mustard and a slice of bread. It’s filled with warm, melted cheese — a great snack for chilly weather. We also tried the Currywurst (€5.60); equally as delicious!

Cost: From €4.80 for a set of sausage and bread (Only cash is accepted!) Opening hours: 9AM – 2AM How to get there: 5min walk from Karlsplatz station. Bitzinger Würstelstand is also just a 2min walk from Sacher Eck Cafe

Ice Skating at City Hall

This isn’t your typical ice rink. From January to early March, Vienna Ice Dream takes over the area in front of City Hall and the surrounding Rathaus Park — transforming it into a massive ice skating park.

A city tradition since 1996, each edition is better than the last. There are four ice skating rinks, totalling 9,500 square metres. They’re all connected by winding paths and it’s a lot of fun exploring the space!

Cost: €8.50 for entry, €5for skate rental — purchase tickets online for 10% off! Opening hours: To be announced How to get there: Take tram 71, D or 2 to Rathaus station, walk 3min

Accommodation in Vienna (three nights):  Wombat’s City Hostel Vienna Naschmarkt ( from S$43/night for a bed) or Motel One Wien-Staatsoper ( from S$186/night for a classic room).

Pro-tips to Saving with City Cards in Austria

I’d admit, my knowledge of Austria before this trip was limited to Vienna being its capital. But halfway through our week-long Austria adventure, I found myself already dreaming of my next visit.

World-class ski resorts, bustling Christmas markets and rich history — Austria is the perfect mix of nature, adventure, and culture. It’s a bit of an underrated destination, but that makes us love it even more.

Planning your first trip to Austria? Here are some useful tips:

1) Inter-city train tickets are a lot cheaper when booked in advance. Take note that different departure times on the same day can be priced differently. Do check in advance when booking tickets!

2) Most old towns in this Austria itinerary are easily explored on foot. But it’s still worth it to get the City Cards to save on attraction tickets and public transportation.

For example, the Innsbruck Card costs €63 for 48 hours. The cost of tickets to the Golden Roof (€4.80), Court Church (€5.10), Nordkette Cable Car (€42), Swarovski Crystal Worlds (€19) and Swarovski Crystal Worlds shuttle bus (€9.50) adds up to €80.40.

You’d save €17.40 by getting the Innsbruck Card! Each city offers its own city card — the Salzburg Card and Vienna City Card are also available.

3) Connectivity: A 30-day 10GB SIM card (€9.99 ) from Drei can be bought at the Vienna airport or at any Trafik store (a convenience store) in the country. Alternatively, purchase a Magenta Klax SIM card ( €10 ) from T-Mobile which offers 15GB for 28 days. 

Are there any places you’d add to this Austria itinerary? Share with us in the comments!

This post was brought to you by the Austria National Tourist Office .

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hi We are going from Vienna to Hallstatt during DEC. From Vienna Hbf station to to Hallstatt Hbf station transfer at Attnang-Puchheim Bahnhof? The train we needed to transfer is it just on the other side of the platform? Thanks for your advise.

Hi Waili, you can use this website to check your connection! 🙂 https://www.oebb.at/en/fahrplan

Thank you for your detailed itinerary. It looks like you had a wonderful time. Which month did you travel?

Hi Christine, we were there in February!

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The Richest Austria Itinerary for 5, 7 and 14 Days for First Timers

Getting done with all the tasks from covering all the attractions to finding the best hotels to stay in seems like a daunting task. Not to forget, the set limitations of budget for the 14 days to explore Austria. It looks like you might have to spend a lot of hours doing research for your Austria itinerary.

Do not worry! With our detailed itinerary for 14 days in Austria, you need to simply focus on what you’re going to wear to the trip and look amazing. Our ultimate Austria itinerary will help you with the day-to-day guides on where to visit with refreshment stops, hotel recommendations, and things to do.  

When To Plan Austria Itinerary Road Trip?

We went to Austria several times. The summer months of June through August are ideal for outdoor adventures like hiking and boating in Austria. Although Austria has high temperatures in summer, it is advised to visit the country in early summer or late fall between May and September.  

The weeks around the end of May and the start of June offer a delightful combination of nice weather and fewer tourists. In addition to experiencing the busy but not too crowded towns, you can take pleasure in trekking in the highlands or exploring lakes.

Driving in Austria

If you want the real experience of wading through Austria, the best way is a road trip. The open road and breathtaking scenery are the main attractions of road trips throughout Austria. Imagine looking out the window and witnessing wind-buffed meadows, silent lakes, and the beautiful Austrian alps. Sounds amazing, doesn’t it? 

That is why you should get a rental car to explore the old town while enjoying the picturesque views of snow-capped mountains. However, there are some travel tips to keep in mind while driving in Austria. 

Tips for Driving in Austria

• You should have a permanent driving license and a permit to drive internationally. 
• To drive on the highways, you need a toll sticker (vignette) from the post office or any gas station you find on the way. Note that the vignette is not needed for other national roads (than the hightway)
• Austria offers numerous panoramic mountain routes, such as the Danube valley or Villach Alpine Road, etc. However, you will have to pay toll tax on visiting these places. Taxes vary from 5 to 18€. Google Maps mentions that as “Toll Roads”
• Make sure that you check the weather before you drive up there because it makes no sense if you can’t see anything.
• The roads along the way are generally very good, but you will come across a steep slope when driving through the mountains. 
• Austria does not have a steady price for gas, so avoid getting the tank filled on highways or in small villages to avoid paying double the price.

Austria Road Trip Itinerary

This 14-day Austria road trip explores the best culinary and scenic landscapes. This itinerary is specially designed for those who wish to truly and profoundly experience Austria by road. 

Day 1-3: Start  from Vienna

We will start our road trip in Europe’s cultural center and the Austrian capital, Vienna, which is located on the banks of the Danube river. It is home to countless balls, imperial palaces like the Belvedere palace, and the sound of the music tour. 

After stepping out of the Vienna international airport, you’ll explore all that this beautiful city has to offer and you’ll feel as though time has stood still. The best way to get to the city from the airport will be to take the City Airport Train which will take you to Wien Mitte in 16 minutes.

Day 1: The Classics of Vienna

First things first, you won’t need your car here since the public transportation in Vienna is commendable and convenient. Now, let’s move on to Day 1 of our 3-day trip to Vienna. 

Tour of the Hofburg palace

The Hofburg palace of Vienna is one of the largest historic buildings in the world. It was the winter home to the Austrian dynasty of Hapsburgs for 600 years. Since 1946, this palace offers residence to the Federal President of Austria. 

For cultural and historic information on the palace, you can visit the Sissi Museum which offers comprehensive details about the life of Queen Elisabeth. The museum consists of more than 300 of her personal belongings, including her popular dresses. 

Don’t miss out on the best coffee house in the neighborhood, Cafe Central , for cake and coffee. The ambiance is dedicated to Franz Joseph and Sissi (Elizabeth I). After enjoying the sweet pastries, head on to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. 

Climb to the top of St. Stephen’s Cathedral

The St. Stephen’s Cathedral tower has ruled Vienna’s skyline with its renowned colorful tiled roof since it was built. The Archbishop of Vienna resides in the Gothic church. 

You can visit the church and climb to the top for unrivaled views of the city. After the grand tour, you can head for lunch at Settimo Cielo for an excellent menu and a splendid wine list.  

Take a ride on Weiner Riesenrad

Now, it’s time to move on to Weiner Riesenrad .

Spend your evening on the Giant Ferris Wheel in Vienna which is 65-meter-tall. Enjoy the stunning sunset in the air while taking in the beauty of Vienna city.  After that, you will enjoy your evening at the Vienna State Opera. 

Enjoy the Vienna State Opera

A night at Vienna State Opera is a must when visiting a city with such a rich musical and cultural heritage. With its stunning Neo-Renaissance architecture and interior that resembles a palace, the opera house is one of the best in the world. You can get 40-minute tour guides to understand the historical importance of the structure. 

Day 2: Vienna’s Must-See Places

Stroll the pathways of schönbrunn palace.

To start off our second day of sightseeing, we will visit the majestic Schönbrunn Palace, which will be just a 10-minute car ride from the city center. The 1,441-room Baroque palace is regarded as one of the most significant historical, cultural, and architectural structures built by empress Maria Theresa. The Hapsburgs have lived here as their vacation home ever since the 18th century.

Schonbrunn Palace front Facade at Sunset

You’ll visit 40 of the palace’s exquisitely decorated rooms as you do the tour of the place. One of those rooms will be the Mirror where 6-year-old Mozart performed his first concert. 

Then, you will head on to enjoy the local market at Naschmarkt which is a 10-minute ride by car. 

Enjoy the local colors at Naschmarkt

We’ll visit the Naschmarkt, one of Vienna’s most well-known marketplaces. It has some legacy, having been around since the 16th century. You can find anything here, including international fruits and vegetables, unique spices, all types of cheeses, and seafood.

The market hosts several eateries and food stands that offer Viennese specialties. It’ll be a great way to start your second day of touring Vienna! After you’ve enjoyed the local colors, you will head to the Spanish Riding School . 

Give the horses a visit at Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School is home to Lipizzan horses and it is one of the most famous places in Vienna. The horses and their riders perform training exercises for the visitors in classical dresses which will leave you amazed. Then, you’ll head on to the Schönbrunn Garden .

Relaxing scenery at Schönbrunn Garden

Once you’re done with the interior, proceed to the gardens. Since 1779, the garden has been accessible to everyone. Admire the 8 wonderfully symmetrical, well-kept areas of the Crown Prince Garden along with the Neptune Fountain. 

Also, spend some time climbing the top of the hill of Gloriette for a fantastic sight of the palace and the main square of Vienna.

For an amazing dining experience, please visit the Schönbrunner Stöckl & Dinnertheater in its original setting with their staff dressed as famous characters from the old times. 

Day 3: Vienna’s Hidden Gems

Tour of the rathaus.

Many visitors just walk by this great building but never go inside. The 1800s saw the completion of Vienna’s Neo-Gothic Town Hall, which now houses the mayor’s offices. The Rathaus featured five towers, the greatest of which was the middle one and was topped by a statue of the Rathausman which you can visit for a guided tour.

Then, you can head to Wachau Valley for learning the history of the area.

Hike through Wachau Valley

The Wachau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Danube Valley. It features some of the pre-historic monasteries, castles, and ruins with urban planning. You can visit its towns and villages to see its agriculture, primarily for the cultivation of vines. Head on to take a hike in the valley .

Enjoy the Sunset at Danube Tower

The Danube Tower is a great place to go for a great view in Vienna because it is the highest building in Austria.  You can enjoy a great view of the capital town. The best time to come here is in the evening, when you have a nice cup of coffee and enjoy the sunset. If that’s not enough, head on to the city river cruise. 

Wade away in the City River Cruise

If there is a river cruise opportunity in a city, we always want to take it. The river cruises in Vienna are a peaceful way to see some sights while relieving your feet of the strain and possibly sipping a cold beverage. It will be the best way to end your 3-day trip in Vienna.

Vienna Hotel Recommendations

Steigenberger hotel herrenhof: mid-range.

This hotel is a top pick owing to its ideal location in the heart of Vienna with many historic places within walking distance. The rooms at the Herrenhof are incredibly spacious with a touch of Baroque architecture and Art Déco.

Comfy apartments at Siebertgasse: Budget

Comfy Apartments at Siebertgasse is a pleasant, light-filled lodging. We adore these flats’ warmth, pastel accents, and minimalist aesthetic.

Day 4-6: Hello Salzburg!

It’s time to head to your next stop on your Austria road trip by train, which will take around 2 hours and 30 minutes. In Western Austria, Salzburg offers some of the best views of the Eastern Alps and the Salzach River, which runs through the heart of the city.

Day 4: Café Bazar & Architectural Attractions

Austro-hungarian breakfast at cafe bazar.

Start your day with the Cafe Bazar , a traditional Austrian café located beside the Salzach River. Here you will have a true Austro-Hungarian cafe experience. Then, you can visit the Mirabell Palace and Gardens .

Take a walk through Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Prince Wolf Dietrich built this magnificent castle in 1606 and gave it to Salome Alt, his mistress, as a present. You can stroll through the extensive gardens and peek inside the estate’s common areas.

Magnificent sightseeing at Residenzplatz

Then, head on to Residenzplatz for some beautiful sights. 

After admiring these magnificent sights, make your way to Salzburg’s central plaza, Residenzplatz. Here, you will find the Salzburg Museum, the Salzburg Glockenspiel, a clock tower, and the ancient residence of the Archbishop of Salzburg around a lovely fountain.

We suggest visiting the adjacent Mus Deli after all the sightseeing for the local cuisine at reasonable pricing from 9 €-24 € .

Go up the Hohen Salzburg fortress

Then, go on to visit the HohenSalzburg fortress.  

This structure is the most distinctive feature of the city’s skyline and is regarded as one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in all of Europe. It is perched on a hill with a view of the city. The fortress includes a variety of museums and observation decks where you learn about the background of this renowned fortress.

Pay a visit to the Salzburg Cathedral

It’s time to move on to Salzburg Cathedral . 

In the early 19th century, Salzburg was governed by the Catholic Church, and it wasn’t until 1816 that Salzburg joined modern Austria. Because of this, there are several Catholic churches scattered across Salzburg, but the Salzburg Cathedral stands out above the rest.

Day 5: Traditional Markets & Nature

Wander around schrannemarkt.

Take a trip to the Schrannemarkt if any of your three days in Salzburg falls on a Thursday.  Open-air markets are something you’ll really enjoy exploring. This enormous market, which is right next to Mirabell Palace, is filled with several vendors selling locally made goods and seasonal, fresh fruit.

Visit the famous Salzburg Museum

Spend some time visiting a museum or two to find out more about Salzburg and its most well-known resident, Mozart.  You can choose to go to either Mozart House, the Museum of Modern Art, or the Salzburg Museum. 

Walp up Kapuzinerberg

Take a quick lunch break at Gasthaus Zwettler and head on to Kapuzinerberg .

It’s time to be a little active and walk up Kapuzinberg, the second significant peak defining Salzburg’s skyline. It offers a view of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the city around it. Then move to Die Weisse for some fresh beers. 

Enjoy a Cold Drink at Die Weisse

The Die Weisse Brewery offers locally brewed wheat drinks along with some seasonal brews. With a full kitchen and a sizable and welcoming beverage garden, it’s a terrific spot to unwind on warm days. If you’d like, you could even stay for dinner there.

Day 6: A Taste of the Alps & Nature

Relaxing walk by mondsee & wolfgangsee.

The lakes Mondsee and Wolfgangsee are your best options if you want to relax or engage in some water sports in the Alpine lake. These are both conveniently close to Salzburg’s city center and are beautiful to visit with a mere 45 minute drive. Enjoy the picturesque views at the lake before heading to the Werfen Ice caves. 

Explore the Werfen Ice Caves & Hohenwerfen Castle

Explore the Werfen Ice Caves if you’re seeking an amazing and engaging experience. These ice caves, which can be found in Werfen, about 40 kilometers south of Salzburg, are simply amazing. You can look for amazing ski resorts in Werfen to enjoy skiing as well.

Hohenwerfen Castle, a historic fortress perched atop a towering hill overlooking the town of Werfen, is close to the ice caves and can be reached within 15 minutes by car.

Hike through the Gollinger Waterfall

Then, you can head to enjoy the beautiful Gollinger Waterfall. 

The Gollinger Waterfall is the ideal destination for a day of hiking. This waterfall, which is about 30 km south of Salzburg, is incredibly spectacular and can be seen after a brief stroll from the parking lot.

Although the waterfall is nearly immediately visible, there is a clearly defined and well-maintained trail that you may use to observe it from vantage angles.

Salzburg Hotel Recommendations

Hotel wolf: mid-range.

In the center of Salzburg Altstadt, the hotel is housed in a structure that was constructed in 1429. Hotel Wolf features comfortably designed colorful rooms with quirky furniture and spotless bathrooms. 

Hotel Flair: Budget

The rooms at this inexpensive hotel are tidy, spacious, and offer a nice view of the city. The hotel is close to Altstadt Salzburg and Salzburg train station, both of which can be reached by walking in 30 minutes.

Day 7-8: Time for the Amazing Hallstatt

With 2 days to spend in Hallstatt, you don’t need to skip any attractions in the city. 

Read Also: How Enjoy Hallstatt in Winter (Budget-Friendly!)

Day 7: The Ice Cave & Heilbronn Cross Loop

We advise fully covering the Alpine scenery on Dachstein mountain during the entire morning and into the afternoon by road. 

After breakfast, enjoy the views from the 5 Fingers Lookout or have lunch on the balcony of the Krippenstein Alpine Lodge. You can take the cable car from the second-level station. You don’t get to eat lunch overlooking a glacier on the summit of a mountain every day.

Spend the day after lunch either trekking between the Alpine lodges or completing the three-hour Heilbronn Cross Loop Trail before heading back to Hallstatt’s main square. 

Grab a leisurely lakeside meal at Heritage Cafe in the evening, but save your appetite for exploration of the town for the day the next day.

Day 8: Hallstatt Hidden Gems

You can fully concentrate on the in-town attractions on your second day. Start the day by taking the funicular with glass walls up Salt Mountain. Move on to Rudolph’s Tower Restaurant for breakfast and then to Hallstatt Skywalk lookout sights. 

Next, take the Salt Mine’s entire 2-hour tour and think about returning to town by way of the Salt Brine Trail, which descends a hill. It is the oldest brine pipe in Europe and dates back to 1670. It takes you through wonderful woodland areas and past a waterfall with breathtaking views of the town. 

After returning to the town’s center, visit the Bone House Chapel , take a round trip, and enjoy a nice lunch in Market Square.

Consider spending a leisurely afternoon by the lake in the Hallstatt style before dinner and renting a boat for the whole experience.

Hallstatt Hotel Recommendations

Fenix hall boutique hotel: mid range.

Fenix Hall is situated in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hallstatt, about 800 meters from the center.  The rooms have oak floors and an earthy vibe. They are decorated in a contemporary country style and have mountain views.

Salzhaus: Budget

Salzhaus offers lodging with views of the mountains in Hallstatt. It also has water sports amenities. 

Day 9-10: Mayrhofen 

All seasons are wonderful in Mayrhofen, with winter and early spring offering traditional Alpine skiing and a developing ski touring culture.

Day 9: Krimml Waterfalls

If the ravine yesterday amazed you, wait until you see what is the most spectacular waterfall in all of Europe! You can choose how far you wish to travel to see the Krimml waterfalls as they cascade across a number of levels. It is amazing in and of itself that the first sight is a 15-minute walk from the parking.

You might enjoy getting into your hotel and spending a relaxing afternoon after a demanding morning. You can take another hike in the evening in the vicinity of your hotel by enquiring at your hotel reception. 

Day 10: Zillertal Valley

Another feeder town for the nearby ski resorts, is located in the Zillertal Valley in the Tyrol province and you can take a rental car up there. If you have the energy, you can take the cable cars from the city up to the resorts, where there are many hiking routes, although the scenery is beautiful on their own. Spend the day enjoying the snow activities in your ski resort. 

You can wander along the river in the city. Check out Goldkind if you need a suggestion for a dining venue.

Mayrhofen  Hotel Recommendations

Hotel berghof mayrhofen: mid-range.

This hotel features Chalet-style housing along with a restaurant serving traditional Austrian cuisine and a beer garden. For summertime dives, there is also a spa and outdoor pool. The distance to the closest ski lift is approximately ten minutes by foot.

Gasthof Zillertal: Budget

The Gasthof Zillertal provides lodging with the best views. The on-site bar is open to visitors and private parking is cost-free.  Some of the rooms at the Gasthof Zillertal have a mountain view or a river view.

Day 11-13: The Inevitable Innsbruck

Going to Innsbruck will be an overwhelming experience given its rich history, breathtaking scenery, and unique culture. You can take a train to Inssbruck or for the complete road trip experience, you can take the 1 hour drive to the place.

Day 11: Panorama Day

Check out the beautiful golden roof.

The Old Town will captivate history buffs with its ability to transport visitors back to the era of the Habsburg Emperor Maximillian I. The spectacular Golden Roof , composed of 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles, is a unique vantage point. When exposed to sunshine, it gleams brilliantly gold, therefore its name. Then head on to enjoy the views from Nordketter cable cars.

Take a ride of the Nordkette cable cars

You have to take the Nordkette cable cars in Innsbruck to enjoy the scenic views of the city. It is a funicular that features stations that also feature works of art by the late architect Zaha Hadid.

Let your eyes sparkle at Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Next, take a toll in the Swarovski Crystal Worlds . 

The crystal company Swarovski is well-known to everyone. But not many people are aware that you can tour a museum, theme park, and exhibition area that showcases everything Swarovski! You must visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds to appreciate it, since some of its exhibits are simply extraordinary!

Day 12: Ambras Castles and Alpenzoo

Visit the famous ambras castle.

Innsbruck can also pride itself in its magnificent collection of royal palaces and Medieval architecture. One such building that supports this is the Ambras Castle . While entering the Ambras Castle will undoubtedly be a memorable historical experience, it is undoubtedly a pleasure to view.

Read Also: 19 Incredible Castles in Austria You Should Visit

Say Hi to the animals at Alpenzoo

The Alpenzoo is distinctive in that it exhibits Alpine animals in a setting that is similar to their natural habitat. Even when the animals are curled up in their winter caves, you can see them through viewing windows.

Enjoy the Bergisel Ski Jump

You may already be aware that the Winter Olympics were held in Innsbruck twice. It shouldn’t be surprising that the Bergisel, one of the most recognizable ski jumps in the world, is located in this popular area for skiing and other outdoor sports, which makes it a must-visit.

Return to Old Town Innsbruck after a strenuous day of hiking, and locate the Stiftskeller. Locals and visitors enjoy eating at this sizable restaurant in the form of a Biergarten. It’s a fantastic way to meet people because the tables are lengthy and are shared by different groups of people. 

Day 13: Discover Bad Ischl

It’s time to visit Bad Ischl , a city in Upper Austria that is also known as a spa town. Stroll along the Esplanade to take in the town’s royal splendor. Sit outside on a café patio to take in the opulent mountain views and majestic palaces.

The Museum of Bad Ischl offers a glimpse into regional history. Look for historical sites like Trinkhalle and the St. Nicholas Church, which is built in the Baroque style, in the town center. Kaiserpark has other artifacts from Austria’s imperial past on exhibit. Visit the lavish chambers of Kaiservilla, the summer residence of the Habsburg family.

If none of that appeal to you, then you can spend the day relaxing in one of the best spas in Austria. 

Innsbruck Hotel Recommendations

Eurothermenresort: mid-range.

The Salzkammerguttherme Thermal Spa is directly attached to this 4-star hotel in the center of Bad Ischl. The five dining rooms of the Hotel Royal provide traditional Austrian cuisine. The bar offers a large selection of cocktails and other high-quality beverages.

Sonnhof: Budget

The Sonnhof is a hotel near to the Bad Ischl train station and across from the Salzkammerguttherme Spa Center. It is surrounded by a park with old trees. The Sonnhof’s beautifully decorated rooms all come with balconies and a scenic view.

Bonus 1 (Extra Stops) Bavarian Alps

The Eastern Alps, more especially the Bavarian Alps, are a portion of the Alps that are located in Germany with spectacular views of the Alps. A lovely country like Bavaria is one that you should definitely visit. 

If not for the weather, then at least for the breathtaking scenery. Couples can enjoy some of Germany’s most beautiful scenery and a genuinely romantic experience in Bavaria.

Day 14: Back to Vienna

It’s the last day of your road trip and it’s time to get back to Vienna. But that doesn’t mean that your trip has come to an end. There’s still time to visit two more attractive places. 

Bonus 2: Day Trip from Vienna to Bratislava

The city of Bratislava has had many different identities over the course of its history, but it has ultimately evolved into the vibrant and eccentric capital of Slovakia that you see today.

Read Also: Vienna to Bratislava by Bike : An Amazing Journey!

For your one-day trip from Vienna to Bratislava, here are some things that you would enjoy:

• A walk to the Bratislava Castle
• Old town hall museum
• Wander around the charming medieval streets
• Spend time at the Blue Church and Pink Palace
• Skim through the Bratislava Christmas markets
• View the sunset at Ufo Tower

Final Thoughts about Austria Itinerary

Your ultimate 14-day itinerary for a road trip through Austria is now complete!  You’ll be able to take in all the natural beauty and cultural richness that Austria has to offer with this itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets and head on to visit the best places in Austria.

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Achraf is the cofounder of Walk Beside Me Blog. He is an expert traveler who spent 10+ years exploring 70+ countries around the world. Thanks to his passion for writing and photography, he could document his journey on 100+ blog posts on Walk Beside Me where he shared all his knowledge, expertise, and advice for like-minded travelers.

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Visiting Vienna on a budget: 19 ways to save money in Vienna

Posted on Last updated: October 10, 2023

Explore Vienna on a budget with this guide to 19 of the best ways to cut your costs in Austria’s fairytale city, from discounted attractions and cheap transport to free tours and low-cost entertainment.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Walking through Vienna is like walking into a fairytale, as a horse and carriage trots past an ornate palace. The Austrian capital is bursting with Imperial history and Baroque architecture, with music from Mozart and Strauss. But there’s also a more modern side, with Art Nouveau and modernist art, and the darker side depicted in The Third Man .

Like many famous European capitals, the number of visitors coming to Vienna can push up prices. But it is possible to experience Vienna’s history, culture and sachertorte without spending big. So here are my tips for making the most of Vienna on a budget.

Things to do in Vienna on a budget

1. Take a walk around the Ringstrasse

For a sightseeing tour of Vienna on a budget, just follow the Ringstrasse. This ring road which runs around the centre of Vienna passes some of the city’s most famous buildings. Along the route you can see the Vienna State Opera, Imperial Palace, Parliament and City Hall. It’s an easy way to experience Vienna’s most beautiful architecture for free.

2. Join a free walking tour

A free walking tour is the perfect low-budget introduction to Vienna’s history and sights. Several different companies offer free tours of Vienna, where you just tip your guide. Good Vienna Tours do a 2.5-hour city highlights tour which departs from Albertinaplatz.

Or Prime Tours have a range of different free tours, including a historical city centre tour, Hitler and 1900s Vienna, street art and Vienna by night tours. Some run daily and others only once or twice a week so check their calendar. And although they’re marketed as free tours, it’s expected that you’ll tip the guide – around €10–€15 is suggested.

3. Visit Schönbrunn Palace gardens

Built in 1743 for Empress Maria Theresa, grand Schönbrunn Palace lies just outside the centre of Vienna. You can explore its lavish staterooms on a guided tour for €29. But if you want to save money, admire the palace from outside and explore its gardens for free.

The Palace Park is normally open from 6.30am until 5.30pm (5pm from November to April). And for a few euros you can also add on a visit to the Gloriette viewing platform, maze, Privy Garden or Orangery (€5 each), which can be booked online.

Vienna also has more beautiful parks which are free to visit, including the Burggarten and Stadtpark. In summer you can escape the heat by heading down to the Danube. Danube Island has 42km of beaches as well as boat hire, water playgrounds and cafés.

4. Take a free guided tour of City Hall

Vienna’s Gothic-style City Hall, or Rathaus, is one of the city’s most impressive buildings. And you can take a look inside on one of their free guided tours , which take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1pm (except on meeting days and holidays).

Tours are in German but there are multilingual audio guides in several languages including English which you can borrow. There are only 50 tickets available per tour and you can’t reserve them in advance, so it’s a good idea to go as early as you can after they open at 8am to pick up a ‘counting card’ for that day’s tour to show you have a place.

5. Save on transport with a Vienna City Card

The Vienna City Card * gives you unlimited free travel by public transport on the city’s trams, buses and subway. The standard card costs €17 for 24 hours, €25 for 48 hours or €29 for 72 hours, so the longer you stay the better value it is. There are also more expensive versions of the card which cover travel to the airport and/or a sightseeing bus.

One child up to the age of 15 can travel for free with each Vienna City Card holder. And as well as covering public transport, you also get discounts on a range of museums, sights, tours, shops and restaurants, knocking between 10% and 30% off the full price.

6. Or save on sightseeing with a City Pass

If you’re planning to visit a lot of Vienna’s museums and attractions, you can save money by buying a Go City Vienna Pass .* This gives you free entry to famous spots including the Schönbrunn Palace, Schönbrunn Zoo, Spanish Riding School, Kunsthistorisches Museum and Hofburg Palace, as well as covering bike and hop-on-hop-off bus tours.

There are a couple of different versions of the pass – an All-Inclusive Pass for 1–6 days (which ranges from €79–£199, with discounts for children aged 12 or under). Or an Explorer Pass where you can pick and mix 2–7 attractions of your choice (€54–€169).

7. Check for combi tickets

If you’re only planning on visiting a few attractions, a joint or combi ticket can end up being better value than a city pass. These tickets are available for various different combinations of museums and save you a few euros on the cost of the standard entry fees.

For example, a combined ticket for the Mozarthaus and House of Music costs €20 versus €28 for individual tickets. You can also save €5 on a combi ticket for the Dom Museum and St Stephen’s Cathedral, or €8 for the Kunsthistorisches Museum and Imperial Treasury.

There’s also various combined tickets available for the different museums in the MuseumsQuartier . And a six-in-one Musicus ticket which includes entry to six apartments in Vienna where the composers Beethoven, Strauss, Schubert and Haydn once lived.

These combi tickets are advertised on the museum websites, so it’s worth checking in advance if there are particular places you want to visit. You can buy them at the participating museums, and some can also be booked online in advance.

8. Explore Vienna’s museums for free

There are several free museums in Vienna , which are either free at all times or have free entry on certain days and times. Free to visit any time are the Snow Globe Museum, Peace Museum and Circus and Clown Museum (open on Sundays only).

Many of Vienna’s museums are free for under 19s all the time and for everyone else on the first Sunday of the month – including the Wien Museum, Hermes Villa, Museum of Military History, Roman Museum, Beethoven Museum and Clock and Watch Museum.

9. Take advantage of late-night discounts

If you’re not going to be in Vienna on the first Sunday of the month, other museums offer reduced or free entry on certain evenings. The Kunsthalle Wien is free on Thursday nights from 5pm–9pm. And the Museum of Applied Arts (MAK) has reduced price entry for €7 instead of €15 on Tuesday evenings from 6pm–9pm. The House of Music also has half-price entry for €8 every night from 8pm, with last admittance at 9.30pm.

And on the first Saturday of October (7 October in 2023), museums and galleries around the city stay open until 1am for the Long Night of Museums . For the price of a €15 ticket you can visit multiple venues, which host special exhibitions and events.

10. Look out for free events

Vienna hosts frequent free events, so keep an eye on the calendar when you’re planning your trip. In summer there’s the hugely popular Donauinselfest free open-air music festival each June on Danube Island. And the free Summer Night Concert by the Wiener Philharmoniker also takes place in the Schönbrunn Palace gardens in June.

You can also see free film screenings in front of the Rathaus during their annual film festival . This takes place between late June and September, with a big screen showing opera performances and concerts each night after sunset, as well as food and drink stalls. And the same area is used for a Christmas market and ice skating rink in winter.

11. Admire the views from St Stephen’s Cathedral

For one of the best views over Vienna’s rooftops, head to the top of the South Tower at St Stephen’s Cathedral , 137 metres up. An All-Inclusive Ticket for the cathedral costs €20, but this includes both towers, the catacombs and the cathedral itself. If you just want to climb to the top of the tower it costs €5.50 (open daily (open daily 9am–5.30pm).

You can also go just inside the cathedral entrance without paying an entry fee. And many of Vienna’s other churches are free to visit, including the Baroque Peterskirche and the Minoritenkirche, which featured in the classic 1949 film The Third Man .

12. Get a standing ticket for the opera

Vienna’s a city of music, but tickets to its famous operas can cost up to €250 and often sell out. You can get cheap tickets for under €20 if you book several months in advance. Or otherwise you can bag a last-minute bargain if you don’t mind standing up.

Around 400 standing tickets are available for the Staatsoper or State Opera House, which cost €18 (for the best seats in the parterre on the ground floor), €15 (in the gallery) or €13 (on the balcony). Tickets go on sale online or from the main box office at 10am on the day.

Or another batch of tickets are available from a special ticket office on Operngasse, which opens 80 minutes before the performance. But get there early, be prepared to queue, and if you’re in a group you all need to line up as you can only buy one ticket per person.

You can also get standing tickets for performances at the Volksoper opera house, which cost from €3–€8 and can be booked online like any other ticket.

13. Or get discounted opera tickets if you’re under 27

If you’re under 27, you can also save money on opera tickets through the Staatsoper’s U27 programme. First you need to register online as a U27 member and have your ID validated. Then you can book special €20 tickets for selected performances. Or pick up any remaining tickets for €20 from the box office half an hour before the performance.

14. Take a tour of the Musikverein

Vienna’s Musikverein concert hall is one of Europe’s best music venues, home to the renowned Vienna Philharmonic orchestra. Like at the opera you can also book standing tickets for concerts at the Musikverein. Or get an insight into this impressive venue with a guided tour , available in English at 1pm daily (except Sundays) for €10.

15. See the Spanish Riding School for less

Another popular Vienna attraction is the Spanish Riding School . Seats for gala performances start from €60, but there are a few options to see the Lipizzaner horses for less. Again you can get standing tickets, which can be booked online in advance. A standing ticket costs €30 for a standard performance or €21 for the Lipizzaner Specials.

Or the cheapest option is to watch the horses’ morning exercise session, which runs from 10am–11am and is set to music. Tickets cost €16 standing or start from €18 for a seat.

16. Shop and eat your way around the Naschmarkt

The Naschmarkt started as a produce market when it opened in 16th century, but is now a whole food and drink experience with over 120 stalls. You can still find fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and fish, but you can also pick up cooked food for a bargain lunch. There’s a real mix of cuisines, from traditional Viennese to Turkish, Asian and Middle Eastern.

The market is open daily except Sundays, opening around 6am and closing at 7.30pm on Mondays–Fridays and at 5pm on Saturdays. There’s also the weekly flea market to browse on Saturdays, and DJ sets to entertain visitors on weekend evenings.

17. Enjoy cake and music at a concert café

You can’t visit Vienna without coffee and sachertorte in a traditional café. The most famous cafés can be expensive but there’s no hurry so you can sit there and watch the world go by. And at the city’s concert cafés there are free live music performances in the afternoons and evenings, with pianists playing classical, jazz and traditional Austrian music.

Among the cafés which offer regular music performances are the Café Schwarzenberg (Saturdays from 6.30pm and Sundays from 10am), Café Weimar (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 4pm–8pm), Café Sperl (Sundays from 3.30pm) and the vintag 1950s-style Café Prückel (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7pm–10pm).

18. Rent a bike to get around

Vienna’s a great place to get around by bike, with 1600km of bike paths in and around the city. You can explore Vienna on a budget using the WienMobil scheme, which has 3000 bikes available from 185 rental stations. You need to register in advance and use their app to pick up a bike, then drop if off at another docking station when you’ve finished.

It only costs €0.60 for up to half an hour’s rental so is perfect if you’re stopping off in multiple places – there are usually docking stations near the main tourist attractions. And the most you would have to pay in a 24-hour period is capped at €14.90.

19. Take the S-Bahn to the airport

Vienna’s international airport is 20km outside the city. Although you get a discount on trains and buses to the airport using the Vienna City Card, the cheapest way to get to the city is using the S-Bahn train. It costs €4.10 and takes around 25 minutes from the airport to Wien Mitte station, where there are subway connections across the city.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Vienna on a budget?*

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Friday 1st of December 2023

That was great recommendations, thank you very much

Lucy Dodsworth

Thanks, that's great to hear!

Austria Travel Guide

This Austria Travel Guide aims to provide you with simple and stress-free travel planning information and inspiration for planning a trip to Austria.

On this regularly updated page you will find links to useful posts on The Trusted Traveller, budget information, details on types of accommodation available, information on getting around the country and more useful links to resources around the web.

Quick Facts

Capital: Vienna

Language: German

Currency: € Euros which is made up of 100 cents. Coins come in 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1 and €2 denominations and notes in €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500 denominations.

Electricity: 230 volts AC, 50Hz. European plugs with two round pins are standard.

Travel Tips

Austria is a small landlocked country right in the heart of Europe bordered by Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia and Switzerland.

The landscape is mountainous with the Alps running right through the country and peaks rising up to over 3,500 metres. Almost half of Austria is forested while the other half is mainly lush green grassland.

Austria has a moderate continental climate which brings warm summer days with cool night and cold sunny winters with lots of snow during the ski season of December to March.

Best Time to Visit

Austria is a year-round destination and you should plan your visit based on the types of activities you wish to enjoy.

June to September (summer) sees lots of sunshine and low rainfall making it the perfect time for hiking in the mountains and exploring the bigger cities.

From November to March (winter) it is cold with plenty of snow, perfect for those wanting to take part in winter sports such as skiing. It is also a nice time of year to visit some of the smaller villages on the edge of the Alps because of the festive spirit and spectacular scenery.

It is always recommend to have a mixture of cash and bank/credit card with you when you travel anywhere in the world and this is no exception in Austria.

In Austria ATM’s are called Bankomats and are found in all major towns and cities across the country. As well, credit cards are widely accepted although some establishments such as small hotels and shops may only accept cash.

Getting There

Getting to Austria from surrounding European countries is simple, quick and cheap by bus or train. You can find out more about rail travel in Europe, including purchasing tickets, on the Rail Europe website; and about bus travel on the Eurolines website.

Austria is also well-connected by air with flights arriving in Vienna, Innsbruck and Salzburg from all across Europe and the UK and parts of the US, Middle East and Asia.  A flight from London will take around two hours and a flight from New York about nine hours.

I use and recommend Expedia for researching and booking flights all around the world.

It is also possibly to arrive by boat along the Danube River from Germany , Hungary and Slovakia .

Getting Around

Austria is a relatively small country so getting around it is pretty simple and cheap.

Europe’s excellent network of trains means that getting around Austria and in fact to/from other European countries is the most timely and cost-effective way to travel. All the major cities are connected to one another and you will find that most regional areas are well-connected to at least one of two of those major cities.

Because of Austria’s proximity to the Alps, some of the world’s most scenic train journeys can be taken through the country too making it more than just a means to get from point a to point b.

There are two classes on the trains, 1st and 2nd class, with the only real difference being slightly more leg space and room to move about in 1st class.

Most trains you can just show up at the train station and buy your ticket on the day while a few (mostly high-speed intercity trains) may need a seat reservation to be made in advance. This can be done either at any train station in the country or online through a ticketing agent in your home country. Here are a few that I recommend depending on where you are from:

• Rail Europe  for residents in USA, Canada & Mexico.
• Rail Europe  for residents in Australia, New Zealand, UK, Europe and other select parts of the world.

Eurolines operates services bus services around the country and they are a cheaper alternative to train travel but will take longer to get from a to b.

Because Austria is a small country, it is relatively easy to navigate if driving yourself.

You’ll be able to collect a hire car from all major airports and cities with most allowing you to pick up in one location and drop off in another, which makes sense if you’re road tripping around the country.

The road in Austria are well maintained and easy to navigate because they are well signposted. During the winter months remember that weather conditions can change rapidly especially on roads going through the mountains. Be sure to obey all signs and drive with care in slippery conditions.

Where to Stay

Austria caters for everyone when it comes to accommodation. Here is a list of the types of accommodation you’ll find:

• Camping/Cabins –  With Austria being a very outdoorsy country you’ll find lots of camp grounds that offer tent sites and basic cabins as low costs. And as with a lot of other European cities, you’ll also find large camp sites on the outskirts of big cities like Vienna that you can stay at cheaply and commute each day into the city for sightseeing.
• Hostels –  You’ll find hostels in abundance in the Austria’s bigger cities and one or two in most other regional areas as well. The level of cleanliness in Austria and similar parts of Europe is well above average so you will likely find your room and shared bathroom to be super clean.

• B&B’s/Pensions –  Small family run style accommodation like B&B’s or pensions can be found all over the country in big cities, small towns and popular rural locations. Accommodation is simple yet comfortable and the experience usually comes with friendly hosts and a home cooked breakfast each morning.

Get up to $45.00 AUD credit when you join Airbnb using this link .

• Hotels/Apartments –  You will find both chain hotel/apartments brands and independent hotel/apartments to be in abundance in cities across the country. The good thing about this type of accommodation is in most cases you know what you are going to get, a clean, comfortable and modern room with a decent array of facilities in the room and on the property. Apartments are great for longer stays as they allow you a bit more space and the option to self cater.

I use and recommend Booking.com for researching and booking hostel, motel, hotel, apartment and resort accommodation around the world.

• Luxury Hotels & Resorts –  Austria has its fair share of 5 star properties, some of which have been named in top lists of accommodation around the world. These will offer you brilliant service and a top location, sometime with incredible views of the surrounding area.

Austria has a variety of eating options that will suit all budgets and tastes. While you will find the majority of its restaurants and cafes serve local and European dishes, the country is expanding and becoming more multicultural with its cuisine offerings.

• Supermarkets/Markets   –  Save money and shop in supermarkets and local markets for snacks, picnic lunches and even ingredients to make a whole meal in your self catering accommodation.
• Fast Food / Take-away   –  Chain fast food stores are in all major centres of the country and along highways as well. If you’re looking for a cheap and tasty fast food meal, look to where the locals are, usually getting snacks and light meals from food trucks and stands on the side of the street. A popular street food snack is a sausage or hot dog and you’ll find stands selling them everywhere.
• Cafes –  Austrian’s love cafes and some of the world’s most well know can be found in the country. Coffee, delicious sweets and tasty Austrian sandwiches will be on offer for sit down or takeaway.
• Restaurants –  Portion sizes tend to be on the larger side in Austria so eating out in restaurants can be really good value. Consider sharing a meal with a travel companion if you’re not too hungry to save money or sticking to one course.
• Fine Dining –  Austria has it’s fair share of the worlds best restaurants so if it is fine dining experiences you are after then you won’t be disappointed.

Useful Austria Posts

Suggested itineraries.

Exploring Austria by Car: A 5 Day Itinerary

First Timers One Month Europe Itinerary

Things to Do

Things to Do in Salzburg

Other Austria Travel Planning Resources

Here is a constantly growing collection of resources from around the web to help you plan you dream trip to Austria.

• The official Austria Tourism website is a great place to start planning your trip.
• The authority in all things travel, Lonely Planet has an extensive section all about Austria. Or why not buy the Austria Lonely Planet Guidebook in hard copy or as an eBook.
• Carly is an Aussie expat living in Vienna who writes all about life in Vienna, her travel across Austria and the rest of Europe on her blog Austrian Adaptation .
• Becki from Borders of Adventure spent most of 2017 discovering the best of Austria. You can read all about her adventures on her blog.
• Travel Tyrol is a blog by Linda who loves living in Austria and wants to share it with the world.

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Austria : Budget Travel Guide

Explore austria.

Welcome to EuroCheapo’s guide to saving on your trip to Austria!

Whether your visiting trendy and historic Vienna, waltzing through Salzburg, or taking in nature (or a ski getaway), Austria offers something for every kind of traveler. All of its delightful and delicious attractions can come at a price, however, as Austria frequently tops the list for “luxury” rather than “budget-friendly” travel.

But that’s where we come in! EuroCheapo is here to help guide you through simple ways to save on your upcoming trip. Get ready to hold onto your euros!

Top cities in our guide

• Innsbruck :  Search hotels | Read blog posts
• Salzburg:   Search hotels | Read blog posts
• Vienna:   Search hotels | Read blog posts
• Search all hotels in Austria

More trip planning resources

Renting a car? Search for your dates and compare rates between rental car agencies.

Tours and tickets: Save time by booking walking tours, attractions and tickets before your trip. Search attractions in Austria

Train tickets: Search and book now directly through ÖBB , the Austrian Railway. Book early for the best prices.

7 Reasons to visit Vienna in 2017

Jan 5, 2017

Craig Nelson

Posted in: Austria , Vienna

Take note, Cheapos: Vienna is getting ready to kick off another big year, and the 2017 calendar is packed with exciting events. From their famous music scene (think: Vienna Boys Choir and the Vienna State Opera) to several free festivals in the summer, Vienna should be on your must-see list for coming year. Music fans » Read more

Innsbruck, Austria: 5 Ways to keep it cheap

Dec 7, 2010

Audrey Sykes

Posted in: Austria , Innsbruck

Europe’s ski towns are scattered across the Alps and serve as ideal winter getaways for those living up north. Innsbruck, Austria is one of the favorites and one of the cheapest. It’s bigger than surrounding towns, with a larger population and thus a lot more to offer in terms of quality and prices. Here are » Read more

Apes and Architecture: Europe’s most stunning zoos

Jul 6, 2010

hiddeneurope

Posted in: Austria

Most folk have definite views about zoos, and any mention inevitably brings out a string of arguments for and against the incarceration of animals. But there are other reasons for going to zoos beyond watching wild cats, apes and okapi. Zoos are great spots for people watching and, for anyone with even only a passing » Read more

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Hallstatt Itinerary: Our Travel Guide Blog And Budget Tips

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Planning on a one-day Hallstatt itinerary? Located in Upper Austria, Hallstatt is a picture-perfect lakeside village with magnificent views and dubbed the “most beautiful lake town in the world”.

This Austria gem of quaint European town is no longer hidden away in the Salzkammergut region, thanks to the iconic scenery photo you see on the postcard. Listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hallstatt is widely considered one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria.

One day trip to Hallstatt can be a very wonderful experience, but be sure to read our travel guide before you go. Hallstatt used to be an idyllic charming town, but it is getting over-tourism with millions of visitors from all around the world.

Our visit to Hallstatt is still one of the most memorable journeys on our Central Europe trip . See how we avoid the crowd when we visited this fairy tale Austrian village. Keep reading on how to get to Hallstatt, the best thing to do and not to do, where to stay, what to eat, and money-saving tips at Hallstatt.

Table of Contents

How To Get To Hallstatt

Getting to Hallstatt is simple but also can be complicated depending on your departure location, money, and time concern.

Cheap public transportation makes it easy to travel from Salzburg, Vienna, and Cesky Krumlov to Hallstatt. However, both buses and trains required at least a one-time change unless self-driving.

The best part of taking the train is your traveling journey will be ended with the ferry ride across the Hallstätter See from the Hallstatt train station to Hallstatt Markt. This is the prime and best moment to snap your photo.

From Salzburg To Hallstatt

Salzburg is the most ideal place to plan a one-day itinerary in Hallstatt . It is the closest place to reach Hallstatt by bus or train from ÖBB and Westbahn. Getting to Hallstatt by bus is cheaper but taking the train might be a better option.

By Car : Easiest and most convenient option if you are on a road trip in Austria. Compare your car rental price at Rentalcars.com , the lowest price guarantee and reliable customer reputation. If you are driving, please note that visitors do not have access to the historic center of Hallstatt and are required to park at the desired car park. There are three parking areas within easy walking distance but limited.

By Bus : Board bus #150 from Salzburg bus station, Südtiroler Platz to Bad Ischl Bahnhof with 1.5 hours bus ride. After that, proceed to Hallstatt Gosaumühle via bus #542 and lastly board bus #543 to Hallstatt Lahn. Approximate 3 hours with a total fare of €14.6.

By Train : Transfer at Attnang-Puchheim is required before heading to Hallstatt. From Salzburg hbf to Attnang-Puchheim by Westbahn or ÖBB, and transfer to ÖBB train at Attnang-Puchheim to Hallstatt station. Total fare of €29.6 + €3 of 15 minutes of ferry ride from Hallstatt station to Hallstatt Markt. The ferry time will correspond with train arrival at Hallstatt station.

Read more on : How To Get To Hallstatt From Salzburg By Train

From Vienna To Hallstatt

By Train : Westbahn and ÖBB operated from Vienna to Attnang-Puchheim and then board for ÖBB train to Hallstatt station. The direct train departs from Wien Hbf to Hallstatt station every weekend, which takes about 3 hours journey.

From Cesky Krumlov To Hallstatt

No public transport is operated from Cesky Krumlov to Hallstatt directly. You can choose to stay in Salzburg or Vienna before heading to Hallstatt by bus or train. Another option is getting to Hallstatt from CK by shuttle service.

By Shuttle : Private companies like CK Shuttle and Beam Shuttle run between, Prague, Vienna, Cesky Krumlov, and Hallstatt with several departure times per day with prices starting from 800 CZK ($35).

A Perfect Hallstatt Itinerary

A perfect Hallstatt itinerary starts in the early morning. The morning at Hallstatt is magnificent. Wake up early and explore Hallstatt before the town gets overrun by tourists. Tour the salt mines and visit Skywalk in the afternoon. Return to town in the late afternoon.

Hallstatt itinerary (What To Do in Hallstatt):

Take a Postcard-Perfect Photo Of Hallstatt

• Enjoy a 360-degree Panorama View At World Heritage Skywalk

Tour At Oldest Salt Mine In The World

Strolling around or walk outside of hallstatt.

• Try the Hallstatt’s fish specialty, freshly caught from Hallstatt Lake

There are so many things to do for a one-day itinerary in Hallstatt. All the hidden beauty is awaiting you to slowly explore and discover. Most day-trippers arrive at Hallstatt around 11 a.m to 4 p.m. If possible, avoid these peak hours and explore Hallstatt in the morning or late afternoon. We arrived at Hallstatt after spending our perfect day in Cesky Krumlov by shuttle service after 3 hours of road journey.

After checking in to Gasthof Simony , our one-night stay hotel at Hallstatt, We choose to take the funicular and ride up to salt mines and Welterbeblick Skywalk. The charming town is awaiting us to explore in the early morning before the tourists come in. We also spend time strolling around and going upper and outside of the Hallstatt for the best photo shooting.

A few hours of the brief visit is not enough. Of course, you have the choice of just spending several hours, taking a look or photo at this quaint European town and leaving. But Hallstatt is worth an overnight or maybe longer stay to discover this charming village.

The first come across a top thing to do at Hallstatt is to take a postcard-perfect photo of this Austria lakeside village. There are two locations for taking the postcard-perfect photo of Hallstatt, both located at the corner end of the village in the north and south. The ideal walking guide of Hallstatt is started from the north to the south end. Anyway, Hallstatt is a relatively small village and there is only probably one hour of walking journey from one end to another end.

It started on the north side. Talk a short walk toward the north corner of the town after passing the ferry station. This bending road will take you to the most breathtaking view of Hallstatt, and this is where you can take the first iconic photo you see on a postcard.

From there, walk along the boardwalk and stop by the marketplace, one of the most stunning places at Hallstatt. Viewing the 16th-century Gothic building with a beautiful balcony at the historical center can be enjoyed.

Make your way along the street and stop by any souvenir shops or houses at your own pace. Take a photo of the photogenic flower-decked houses or the lively ducks and swans at the lake.

At the end of the walking journey, you will enter another best viewing point at the south end. This location is where you can take the second postcard-perfect photo of Hallstatt from another angle.

360-degree Panorama View At World Heritage Skywalk

Hallstatt Skywalk observation deck offers a breath-taking panoramic view of the entire Dachstein Salzkammergut region. This 350-meter high platform can be reached by 1 hour of hike or €16 of the funicular ride.

From the south viewpoint, follow the sign and walk down the road until you get to the funicular. You can purchase the funicular ride separately or together with the Salzwelten tour which is worth for visit.

Many peoples are coming to Hallstatt for its picturesque charming village, but they don’t know the best attractions in the area are above the village. Hallstatt Salzwelten is considered some of the oldest salt mines in the world, dating back 7,000 years of history. It is also part of the reason why Hallstatt is recognized by UNESCO.

Be prepared for an enjoyable and educational experience in the darkness. This €34 guided tour will explain the mining process and history of salt mining. There are two wooden slides and a train ride out from the tunnel which adds to the excitement of the tour. Worth a visit.

The salt mines tour is approximately 80 to 90 minutes. But please budget for at least 3 to 4 hours including the return journey of the funicular ride and a visit to Skywalk. Normally the line is extremely long, especially in summer, so please come early or book your ticket in advance if you intend to visit the Hallstatt Salt Mines.

Another best thing to do at Hallstatt is strolling around through the narrow streets and elevated upper level of the town. There is so much to explore at Hallstatt besides the lakeside walk.

Instead, you can also walk out of the village and head to Badestrand, one of the locations with stunning views of Hallstatt. With 10 minute walking journey, you can have a peaceful Hallstatt on your own.

Things Not To Do In Hallstatt

Tourism is booming in this small mountain village of only 750 residents. Over 600,00 people are visiting Hallstatt per year for its stunning architecture and well-maintained landscape. But keep in mind that we are visiting other houses and communities.

That’s why it’s important to show respect.

Things Not To Do in Hallstatt:

• No flying drone
• No trespass on property
• Keep your voice down

No Flying Drone : Drone is prohibited with a brunch of signs sprinkled around Hallstatt. Please be aware that Austria has the strictest laws about drones with very hefty fines. You don’t need this. Just climb up the stairs to the upper Hallstatt or take the funicular up to the Skywalk to get the beautiful panoramic view of Hallstatt.

No Trespass On Property : Show your respect to residents as people are living at Hallstatt. Don’t trespass just for a better photo.

Keep Your Voice Down : Don’t ruin the peaceful and quiet village with your high-pitched voice. Many residents have been put up a sign and hoping for visitors to lower their voices.

Hallstatt Travel Tips

Here are some of the useful Hallstatt travel tips for planning a relaxing holiday:

• Arrive at Hallstatt early.
• Stay for a night in Hallstatt.
• Wake up early.
• Off-season trip.

Arrive at Hallstatt Early if you wish to avoid crowds. Else, consider staying at night at Hallstatt to enjoy this stunning village in the late evening or early morning before the visitors come in.

Stay For A Night at Hallstatt or nearby. Most day-trippers are arrived in the afternoon and will be leaving after spending a few hours at the market square and Seestraße.

Wake Up Early : A few hours in the morning before the arrival of day-trippers is the best time for you to explore the Hallstatt peacefully.

Off-Season Trip : Expect a large crowd and higher prices during the peak season, especially the summer holiday. If possible, avoid peak season so that you can experience the peaceful and calming European village.

Accommodation: Gasthof Simony

We kept debating whether to stay one night in Hallstatt or just a day trip from nearby places such as Salzburg or Bad Ischl. A day trip to Hallstatt is enough for a brief visit to this tiny town. However, you have to stay one night in Hallstatt to fully explore the beauty of the serene town when the day-tripper leaves.

Due to the size of the town, there is very limited accommodation in Hallstatt town. The price is not budget-friendly, especially for those rooms overlooking the lake. Some accommodations even required at least 2 nights’ stay if you choose to stay in Hallstatt.

But glad that we managed to find the Gasthof Simony , a historical wooden building located in the center of Hallstatt with a panoramic view of Lake Hallstatt. A little bit rundown but consider being one of the cheapest accommodation at the center of Hallstatt with superb scenery. Most important, we managed to book a room with a lake view. The view was truly unearthly with Alpine views, especially in the morning. It was truly my best memory in my Hallstatt itinerary. So skip the day trip and go for at least an overnight trip.

Another worth recommendation is Seehotel Gruner Baum . Probably the best lakeside hotel in Hallstatt and served as scenography in many movies. Many celebrities and even Empress Sisi stayed here before. Extremely popular, so please reserve early.

• Where To Stay in Hallstatt: Old Town or Obertraun

Friendly reminder, Hallstatt is a very popular tourist destination. Make sure to reserve your stay in advance if you plan to overnight at Hallstatt. Alternatively, look for accommodations in Obertraun, which is located opposite Hallstatt across the lake at a cheaper price.

What To Eat Hallstatt

Not many choices and limited restaurants mostly located in the market square. Some of the Gasthof also served food but only until lunchtime and mostly not open during Sunday.

Elevated price for food in Hallstatt. If you have the budget, look for the restaurant at the lakeside to enjoy your meal with a great view. Don’t forget to eat fish, Hallstatt’s specialty. Hotel Seewirt Zauner served the best fish dishes in Hallstatt. They proudly serve the local fish which is freshly caught from Hallstatt Lake.

The local Gasthof restaurant like BRÄUGASTHOF and Gasthof Zauner also served traditional local dishes in a nice environment.

Alternatively, look for Maik’s Heisse Hutte , a small cabin located at the Hallstatt Markt that served street food like kebab, hamburgers, and fries at a cheaper price. But don’t expect too much from the food.

We had our lunch in this budget place during our visit to Hallstatt. We ordered the Wiener schnitzel and a beer. The food was not too bad and we enjoyed the food. Couldn’t have asked for more for this price at Hallstatt.

Best Time To Visit Hallstatt

We visited Hallstatt at the beginning of April, not yet the peak season but unfortunately, we also miss the chance to explore the Dachstein Krippenstein’s Giant Ice Cave and Five Finger. I would suggest coming at the end of April or the beginning of May. It should be the best time to visit Hallstatt when everything opens.

There are so many things to do and see at Hallstatt, for sure a few hours for a brief visit with only a one-day itinerary in Hallstatt may not be enough. The charming village, Salzwelten salt mine with Welterbeblick Skywalk, Dachstein Krippenstein with Giant Ice Cave and Five Finger, which easily need to spend at least one or two nights stay at Hallstatt.

Hallstatt Still Worth To Visit?

Last but not least, I hope my little guide can help you plan your perfect one-day Hallstatt itinerary . Seriously, Hallstatt is one of my favorite places during my Europe trip. Despite the large crowd, Hallstatt is very charming. We choose to stay in the lake view front room with slightly expensive but it was worth it. The view is superb breathtaking and unforgettable when you are viewing it barefoot on the room’s balcony. Travel smart and you are actually can escape from the tourist crowds.

If you have any questions, let me know in the comment. I will try my best to answer you. Thanks for reading my post on how to plan your one-day Hallstatt itinerary. Happy travels to Hallstatt!

Planning One Day Hallstatt Itinerary

If you are planning on Hallstatt itinerary by using public transport, make sure to read our transportation guide on:

• Getting To Hallstatt By Train, Bus, And Ferry
• Step-By-Step Guide On Getting Hallstatt From Salzburg By Train

Planning on a day trip or staying one night in Hallstatt? Here is the best accommodation guide for where to stay in Hallstatt.

• Gasthof Simony: Best Budget Stay in Hallstatt

Read next : If you’re traveling to Central Europe for the first time, here are more helpful guides to help you plan your trip.

• [Czech Republic] Three Perfect Days in Prague
• [Czech Republic] Day Trip to Cesky Krumlov
• [Austria] How To Visit Salzburg In One Day
• [Austria] Vienna, City Full of Art, History and Fairy Tales
• [Germany] Berchtesgaden, The Hidden Natural Gem
• [Slovakia] Bratislava: A Charming Unpolished Old Town in Slovakia
• [Hungary] How To Spend Three Full Day in Budapest

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for Solo Travel Over 50

AUSTRIA SOLO TRAVEL GUIDE

Know before you go austria travel guide 2024 plan and book your austria solo travel, about austria, languages in austria, austrian culture, popular activities in austria, austrian currency, tipping in austria, austria holidays, travel documents for austria, vaccinations for austria, electronics for austria, cyber security while traveling, salzburg with hallstatt, wachau valley, 2 week itineraries with austria, cheap flights to austria, places to stay in austria, getting around austria, things to do in austria, air travel tips, ground transportation, accommodation tips, eco-friendly things to do, eco-travel products, before you go to austria, safety in austria, best time to visit austria, budget accommodations, best time to book travel.

This page may contain affiliate links for your convenience. For products, the goal is to first provide direct links to eco-friendly, ethical, and sustainable companies, and then to those same type (i.e., Climate Pledge Friendly Certification ), of brands that use Amazon, if possible. Therefore, you may see multiple links for one option. Should you make a purchase through any link, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. See my Disclaimers & Disclosures and Privacy Policy for more information.

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WILLKOMMEN IN ÖSTERREICH!

Hi! I’m Gwen, and my passion is using my 28 years of solo global travel and sustainability knowledge and experience to help the solo over 50’s be and stay adventurous through solo travel with their eco-friendly, responsible travel foot forward. Here is my guide to traveling in Austria from my Austria solo travel so you can book and realize your solo travel in Austria. What are you waiting for?

The Best of Austria and Germany in 14 Days Solo

Austria: did you know.

Austria – home to 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , including the historic city centers of Vienna , Graz and Salzburg , Austria is the central European country where 62% is covered by the Austrian Alps full of Alpine villages and downhill skiing; centuries of Imperial history; castles and palaces; Mozart, Haydn and Strauss; Sigmund Freud; and, of course, the Porsche and Volkswagen (yeah, bus!).

The capital, Vienna, rests on the Danube River, which runs for 1770 miles through 10 countries.

Austria is famous for its opera, stunning baroque architecture and tasty strudel.  

Don’t forget to try the Viennese coffee on a lazy afternoon or go running through the scenic landscape singing, “The hills are alive with the sound of music!” Ok, maybe not, but the country will make you want to. Yes, it’s that  beautiful.

The official language is German.

Modern Austria, from the word “Austro”, is primarily a Western culture that is the German-speaking land of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire ruled by the Habsburg family from the 16 th  to the early 20 th  century (ending with World War I). 

A visit to Austria can provide visits to many of the former palaces and summer homes once inhabited by the Habsburgs, whose lineage also extends to many other European countries’ royal families.

You cannot go wrong visiting the vast number of Habspurg palaces and castles, such as the Hofburg and Schönbrunn palaces (too many to list them all here), along with visiting the Spanish Riding School , Melk Abbey , St. Stephen’s Cathedral , or the art museums galore. 

If you wish to be outside, why not try wine tasting , skiing in the Alps , hiking , or being on the water, such as at Hallstatt ?

Best Wine Tasting Tours in Austria

AUSTRIA TRAVEL PLANNING

Austria uses the Euro (€). Exchange rates are usually favorable for Europeans but could fluctuate in the other direction.

Traveling in a new country is easier when you know the country’s tipping etiquette in advance as each country has its own rules.  That said, country rules and norms can shift, so here is an international tipping resource for over 70 countries to use as a general guideline that I have found is constantly updated. 

What’s not on there is how to tip a concierge, beauty salons or spas, travel or tour guides, etc.  For these extras, it is acceptable to tip 10% at minimum. Remember, tipping is for good service only.

Additionally, you should always tip in the local currency (if tipping in cash), and do not be offended if your tip is refused as it may not be the norm. I feel it’s always better to offer a tip for good service than not, unless I know it will be considered offensive, like in Japan.

It’s a complete bummer to spend time and money on the holiday of a lifetime only to show up at a key attraction, or try to access travel or banking resources, only to find them closed due to a national or local holiday.

Therefore, a key activity to do in your early Austria vacation planning stage is to know the local and national holidays in Austria .

AUSTRIA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

From the U.S., you will need a valid passport with an expiration date greater than 6 months from your return date to the U.S. It is advised to always check the U.S. State Department in advance of traveling to Austria for pertinent, up-to-date Austria travel advisories and information. If you are not from the U.S., please check your government’s website.

At this time (October 2023), a travel visa is not required for U.S. citizens who travel in Austria 90 days or less and within a 180-day period. However, in mid-2025 it is expected that the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETAIS) will go into effect that is designed to strengthen European borders and streamline entry. At that time, a printed ETAIS visa waiver (the “ETAIS”) will be required to enter the Schengen Area for tourist, business or transit purposes of 90 days or less. You will be able to apply online for the ETAIS visa waiver , which will also require a fee (7 EUR). Requirements for an ETAIS are available now. Watch for ETAIS updates if you are planning to solo travel to Austria in 2025.

If you are not from the U.S., please check if your country is on the ETAIS list indicating whether you are required to obtain an ETAIS or a Schengen Visa .

Choose from Top Travel Document Holders

There are normally no vaccinations required for Austria. The U.S. State Department provides up-to-date required vaccination information for traveling to Austria. It is advised to always check for any Austria travel restrictions and required vaccinations during your planning stage and again before you leave.

If you are not from the U.S., please check your government’s website.

AUSTRIA TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Want to use your 110V electronics while traveling around Austria? Austria’s voltage is 230V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. If you do not already have electronics (hair dryer, clippers, curling iron, etc.) made for Austria’s voltage, you will need to bring a voltage converter to use your electronics. Below are top-rated power converters for you to compare and buy.

Choose the Converter That’s Right For You

Most smartphones, tablets, laptops, cameras and similar electronics don’t require a converter (double-check your device(s) before you leave home), but you will still need a plug adapter.

Traveling to Austria, Type C and F adapters will fit Austria’s electronic outlets. II recommend bringing at least one of each adapter type accepted. I do not recommend using those single adapters for 100+ countries. They have been known to break and/or cause a power short.

Be prepared before you visit Austria. Bring a solid, reliable, and grounded power adapter to safely charge your electronics in Austria. Below are top-rated U.S. (Type A and B) to Austria power adapter options, from the only brand I travel with, for you to compare and buy.

Choose the Austria Adapter That’s Right for You

Type c adapters.

Type E/F Adapters

If you are going to another country in addition to your trip to Austria, check this international travel adapter guide to make sure you’re prepared.

Having a virtual private network (VPN) service and portable WiFi is always a good idea to not just stay connected, but stay connected securely in your hotel and all public spaces, like airports, train stations, and restaurants.

• Portable WiFi Hotspot for Travel: Experience seamless connectivity with the Solis Lite, your pocket-friendly companion that offers secure and reliable mobile WiFi hotspot coverage in over 135...
• SIMO’s virtual, multi-carrier network, includes all the major carriers, so you can work, learn, or play from anywhere. Stay connected domestically or abroad with your personal Wi-Fi hotspot and...
• Built-in 4700 mAh Power Bank: Stay online all day with 16+ hours of battery life in your Solis Wi-Fi hotspot. Keep all your gadgets charged on-the-go.

• Perfect Case for SIMO Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot
• Featured Design: Strong compact light weight case, the round square design best matching the round shape of the Solis and making it easy to in and out of the case
• Assured Protection: Semi-hard carrying case protecting the device from shock, shake, scratch. PEVA materials with pressure or hit absorbing and water resistant. The round square design make it best to...

CITY GUIDES & ITINERARIES

Use my solo travel guides, itineraries, travel tips, day trip ideas, and recommended things to do in these top Austrian destinations, all from my travel in Austria, to plan your best Austria solo travel.

The more I travel in Austria, the more that gets added to this Austria Travel Guide. Keep checking back.

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How to book austria travel.

It’s important to book the top three travel necessities early : flights, accommodations and ground transportation.

No travel Austria guide would be complete without the booking tools below. These, along with fun Austria things to do and ecotourism ideas , will allow you to realize your solo trip to Austria.

With the ever-growing demand for airline tickets to Austria, flights book quicker these days. Find cheap flights to Austria now .

Don’t Wait to Book Your Flight to Austria

Second in importance to buying airline tickets to Austria is finding the best place to stay in Austria for your solo travel to Austria. Develop your Austria travel itinerary now and find the best accommodations in Austria to knock one more item off your Austria travel planning list.

Find the Best Solo Travel Accommodations in Austria

Austria has Bolt , Uber , Carpoolworld , and other possible regional ridesharing services and apps (research in advance if they are in your destination area).

There are also taxis, of course, and you can easily find a rental car if that better suits your Austria solo travel itinerary.

Find the Best Deals on Austria Rental Cars

Austria also part of Europe’s incredible bus and train network, so getting around and booking transportation is easy.

Here are some more of the top things to do in Austria to book for your Austria solo travel.

Best Austria Food Tours & Activities

Austria eco-travel ideas.

There are ways to reduce your eco and carbon footprint through air travel, accommodations, tours, and activities in Austria. To help avoid greenwashing businesses, here are some eco-friendly or sustainable travel (also called responsible travel) tips and resources, you can use to book your travel.

Skyscanner provides a ‘Greener flights’ filter highlighting flights that emit less CO2.

Purchase carbon offsets throu gh your airline  or through a third party, like MyClimate.org, Carbonfund.org , or terrapass . Carbon offsetting allows you to buy a certificate to reduce carbon emissions, a major contributor to climate change, which in turn contribute community projects across countries to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

The best eco-friendly forms of ground transportation in Austria are public transportation, walking, or renting a bicycle or electric scooter . They are also apt to cost less than other ground transportation.

Explore Austria Bike and Electric Scooter Rentals

Try to avoid renting a car in Austria by using the amazingly convenient and inexpensive buses and/or trains .

When booking a rideshare in Austria, select the Bolt Green or  Uber Green options instead of a traditional rideshare, or use Carpool Austria , to support the use of electric cars and carpooling for cleaner transportation in Austria.

Bolt and Lime also have electric scooters to rent in Austria for faster and cleaner commuting. Search Bolt and Lime for select city availability.

Look for accommodations with the following self and third-party assessed certifications when you book:

Green Globe – Green Globe certifies hotels, resorts, conference centers, transportation, attractions, tour operators, and other tourism businesses globally on sustainable operations and management. Look for Austria and other European Green Global members .

Green Key Global is an internationally recognized environmental certification for the lodging and meetings industries, including hotels and hostels, campsites and holiday parks, restaurants and attractions in 65 countries. Search for Green Key awarded sites.

Living Building Challenge – if you want to stay in a true, sustainable building, find one certified by the Living Building Challenge. LBC’s certification directory shows all project types globally. Hopefully they will put in a filter soon to allow searching by hotels or hospitality type.

LEED Certified – the USGBC’s LEED Certified label on buildings, like many of the Marriott’s hotels , are those that have verifiably employed multiple and varying green building strategies to improve human and environmental health. Search the LEED directory for Austria certifications .

Green Lodging Program – Audubon International has an environmental stewardship certification through third-party verification. Search its certified members directory .

GSTC Certified – the Global Sustainable Tourism Council provides global standards for sustainable travel and tourism, as well as international accreditation for sustainable tourism Certification Bodies. Booking sites that offer GSTC certified sustainable are bookdifferent , EcoHotels , and Transat .

Another way to find an establishments implementing eco-friendly or sustainable practices, certified or not, is through Booking.com  in which you’ll need to find and review each establishment’s ‘Sustainable Initiatives’ within the booking process. Starting 2022, however, you’ll be able to filter searches for accommodations with the Travel Sustainable badge .

Find Your Travel Sustainable Stay in Austria

Austria ecotourism ideas are available to explore for your next vacation.

Search Green Global and Green Key awarded members for eco-friendly activity providers in Austria. Some may also have the GSTC Certified logo.

Top Eco Friendly Activities in Austria

There are more ways to do your part for the planet in your responsible travel, like bringing sustainable and eco-friendly products to protect Austria’s environment. 

There are more ways to do your part for the planet in your responsible travel. Read my 10 Easy Eco-Travel Tips and view my suggested Eco Travel Resources to learn more.

AUSTRIA TRAVEL SAFETY

Always consult your government’s Austria travel advisory for your Austria travel destination in the beginning travel planning phase and up to your departure date.

Buy Austria travel insurance and international medical insurance for your Austria solo travel to protect yourself and cover for emergencies.

There is nothing I can recall from Austria making it more of a “safety concern” than traveling in my own home country, so my standard tips for solo and female solo travelers in Austria are:

• always carry photo ID with you; if you don’t want your passport on you at all times, at least carry a copy of it.
• always be “street wise”.
• always be aware of your surroundings, especially if you feel the need to imbibe or feel the need to “let loose” – you’re on vacation so have fun!
• never leave your food or drink unattended.
• keep your belongs on your person, or at least in your view in close proximity, at all times.
• be open to meeting and talking with new people – that is where a lot of the travel experience lies – but be careful on how you divulge personal information.
• research places in advance, if possible, so you know what to expect (i.e., “have a familiar view” – I like to Google the street view of new addresses I’m going to first).
• if something, someone or someplace makes you feel uncomfortable, go with your gut – leave.

AUSTRIA BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS

Austria can be pricey, especially if you want to do it right. However, that’s not to say you can’t find budget accommodations, try local foods, or hit some great site seeing and entertainment on a budget.  This is a country I would a little planning on if you are on a budget. 

Like other countries in Europe, Austria’s high, tourist season, and most expensive time, is the summer (June to August) – expect crowds to be heavy and prices to go up. 

Crowds are not as heavy in the spring (April and May) and Fall (September to October), where prices are better than the summer season – make sure you keep an eye on the spring weather (see my piece). 

The least expensive time to go to Austria would be November to March. Keep in mind, however, if you are going to a ski or winter sport area – prices could be high and you may want to book in advance.

Staying in hostels could save you a lot of money on accommodations in Austria, especially if you stay in a dorm-style room. Save more money by booking well in advance.

Many Austria hostels also offer private rooms, which I choose from time to time. Private rooms in hostels could possibly be cheaper than hotels in Austria – it depends on where you stay and how far in advance you reserve.

Don’t overlook exploring hostels in Austria if you’re on a budget.

Reserve Your Austria Hostel

Ready to book your Austria solo travel? The sooner you book your reservations, the more you’re likely to save money and get the best flight, accommodation, and rental car choices and deals.

Don’t miss out and find the best Austria flight deals . The best time to book travel is now. Bundling flight, hotel and/or transportation reservations may even save you more money on your trip to Austria.

Do You Know What Austria Flights and Hotels Cost?

PERSONAL STORY

Austria is one of my favorite countries. I’ve been fortunate enough to have been to Salzburg, Hallstatt , Innsbruck , Vienna and the Wachau Valley .  Each city is beautiful in their own right, and the landscapes are second to none, but the capital, Vienna, blows my mind. The architecture, culture, food, art, history, sense of safety, public transportation system…  It’s no wonder Vienna has been ranked the #1 city in the world to live 10 years in a row as of 2019. All I have to say is that if you haven’t been to Austria, GO.

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Austria Budget Travel 2024/2025

When planning a trip to Austria , it may seem impossible to experience everything on your bucket list on a tight budget. With a savings-friendly Austria budget travel package, however, you can get an inside look at the famous Schönbrunn Palace, enjoy a classical concert in Salzburg, and visit Danube—all at a low cost. An Austria budget tour might take you on a ski trip to Hopfgarten im Brixental, cheese tasting in the Salzkammergut region, or cruising on the Salzach River. With the best prices and no booking fees, our Austria budget vacation packages are designed to maximize your Austrian vacation at a minimal cost. Scroll down for more information on Austria budget travel or contact our travel experts to customize your trip to Austria on a budget according to your personal needs.

• Best Time To Visit Austria

76 budget tours in Austria

• Starts Bad Goisern, Austria
• Ends Bad Goisern, Austria

Austrian Lake District and Dachstein Alps

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking Walking tours , Trekking and Hiking & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='16494'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Train, Private Vehicle & Ferry
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Jun 15 10+ seats left
• Jun 16 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Salzburg, Austria
• Ends Vienna, Austria

Salzburg to Vienna Cycle

• Activities Bicycle tours
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat & Train
• May 04 10+ seats left
• May 05 10+ seats left

• Starts Bad Ischl, Austria
• Ends Bad Ischl, Austria

Austrian Lakes Walk

• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Hotel, Hut, Villa & Resort
• Transport Boat, Ferry, Train, Bus & Private Vehicle

• Starts Gosau, Austria
• Ends Gosau, Austria

Dachstein Circuit

• Accommodation Hotel, Hut & Lodge
• Transport Private Vehicle, Train, Ferry & Bus
• Jul 01 10+ seats left
• Jul 02 10+ seats left

• Starts Hopfgarten, Austria
• Ends Hopfgarten, Austria

Mini Ski Austria

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Skiing and Snowboarding
• Accommodation Resort & Hotel
• Transport Coach
• Age Range 18-35 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 225
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 22
• Total Price from: US$ 203
• Dec 09 Only 8 seats left
• Dec 16 10+ seats left

• Starts Vienna, Austria
• Ends Paris, France

From East to West

• Activities Explorer
• Transport Boat, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• May 10 10+ seats left
• May 17 10+ seats left

The beautiful blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)

• Tour Type Cruise Tour
• Activities Cruise & Explorer
• Accommodation Ship Cabin
• Transport Cruise Ship
• Age Range 18-79 yrs
• May 23 Only 4 seats left
• May 30 Only 4 seats left

The Ski Austria Weekender

• Activities Skiing and Snowboarding & Explorer
• Brochure Price: US$ 325
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 32
• Total Price from: US$ 293
• Dec 12 10+ seats left
• Dec 19 Only 7 seats left

• Starts Linz, Austria

Danube Cycle Adventure for Families

• Activities Bicycle tours & Family
• Transport Ferry, Train & Boat

• Ends Prague, Czech Republic

Best of Vienna, Budapest and Prague

• Trip customizable
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Boat
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• May 24 10+ seats left

• Ends Dubrovnik, Croatia

Vienna to Dubrovnik

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites Sightseeing Tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Mountains 'data-more-tripid='3047'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House, Resort & Hostel
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Boat, Minibus & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 6,590
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 988
• Total Price from: US$ 5,602
• May 18 Only 7 seats left
• May 25 Only 9 seats left

Capital Cities Along the Danube (port-to-port cruise)

• Activities Cruise
• Jul 08 10+ seats left
• Jul 12 Only 4 seats left

• Ends Budapest, Hungary

Hungarian Rhapsody

• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Train, Ferry & Boat

• Starts Passau, Germany

Blue Danube Cycle to Vienna in Comfort

• Transport Train & Boat

Austria Budget Tour Reviews

Budget tours and trips.

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Austria group tours

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